Israeli drone strikes in southern Lebanon have reignited tensions, leaving one dead and casting doubts over the fragile ceasefire with Hezbollah. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned that Israel would enforce the truce “with an iron fist,” while officials threatened broader military action if the ceasefire collapses.
Renewed Violence in Southern Lebanon
Lebanese health authorities confirmed the fatality following an Israeli drone strike on Shebaa, a southern town near the Israeli border. The Lebanese Ministry of Public Health identified the victim as a local shepherd. This strike marks an escalation as tensions simmer just six days into the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hezbollah.
Alongside the drone attack, Israeli artillery also targeted multiple areas in southern Lebanon. State-run National News Agency (NNA) reported extensive damage, heightening fears of a full-scale conflict. The repeated strikes have strained an already fragile truce, with each side accusing the other of violations.
Netanyahu’s Staunch Warning
Prime Minister Netanyahu underscored Israel’s determination to maintain the ceasefire, describing it as “a ceasefire, not the end of the war.” Speaking in Nahariya, near the northern border, he vowed to respond aggressively to any perceived threats from Hezbollah. His statement emphasized Israel’s readiness to act decisively, reinforcing its stance amid rising tensions.
“We are enforcing this ceasefire with an iron fist,” Netanyahu declared, signaling Israel’s unwavering approach. His remarks followed similar warnings from other top officials, who reiterated that any breach would be met with severe retaliation.
Threats of Expanded Military Action
Israel’s Defence Minister, Israel Katz, warned of a significant shift in Israel’s military strategy if hostilities resume. He stated that future strikes would no longer distinguish between Hezbollah and the Lebanese state.
“If the ceasefire collapses, we will act strongly. There will be no exemptions for the state of Lebanon,” Katz declared during his visit to the northern border. His comments signaled a potential expansion of Israel’s military campaign, aimed at both Hezbollah and Lebanon’s broader infrastructure.
This hardline stance reflects Israel’s growing frustration with Hezbollah’s activities and its intent to deter further escalations. Until now, Israeli operations primarily targeted Hezbollah while sparing broader Lebanese institutions. However, Katz’s remarks indicate a significant policy shift, blurring the line between the militant group and the Lebanese government.
Read: Fragile Ceasefire Tested: Israeli Attacks in Lebanon Escalate Tensions
Tense Future Ahead
The situation remains volatile, with both sides preparing for potential conflict. While the ceasefire temporarily halts hostilities, trust between Israel and Hezbollah is tenuous. Netanyahu’s “iron fist” policy, coupled with threats to extend military action, leaves Lebanon on edge.
Observers fear that a breakdown in the ceasefire could plunge the region into a larger conflict, with devastating consequences for both nations. The ongoing tension highlights the fragile nature of peace in the region, with each action and response carrying the potential to ignite broader warfare.
Follow us on Google News, Instagram, YouTube, Facebook,Whats App, and TikTok for latest updates