📰 Netanyahu Orders ‘Vigorous Attacks’ on Hezbollah Targets
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered his military to “vigorously attack Hezbollah targets” in Lebanon, just two days after the ceasefire between the two sides was extended by three weeks. The directive marks a sharp escalation in tensions along the Israel-Lebanon border.
Ceasefire Under Strain
Under the ceasefire agreement, Israeli forces are expected to gradually withdraw from southern Lebanon in the coming weeks, while Hezbollah is required to halt all cross-border military activities. However, Saturday’s airstrikes on southern Lebanon killed at least six people, and fresh cross-border exchanges have put the truce under severe strain.
Following Netanyahu’s directive, the Israeli military launched new strikes on multiple targets in southern Lebanon. Hezbollah responded with retaliatory fire, leading to intense exchanges along the border.
International Concerns
The development has drawn widespread international concern. The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) said it is closely monitoring the situation and urged both sides to exercise restraint. France and the United States, key mediators in the ceasefire deal, also expressed worry about the escalation.
The ceasefire was reached earlier this year through multilateral mediation, aiming to end months of border clashes between Israel and Hezbollah. However, its implementation has been marred by repeated frictions, including the continued presence of Israeli troops in southern Lebanon and the repositioning of Hezbollah fighters.
Outlook for Regional Stability
Analysts suggest Netanyahu’s order may reflect the Israeli government’s dissatisfaction with the pace of ceasefire implementation. Israel has consistently demanded that Hezbollah fully withdraw from the southern border area and dismantle its weapons infrastructure.
The Lebanese government has called for international intervention to prevent further deterioration. The Prime Minister’s office issued a statement urging both parties to abide by the ceasefire terms and avoid actions that could lead to a full-scale conflict escalation.
Source: BBC News