BEIRUT (AP) — Multiple Lebanese military personnel died Saturday in an Israeli airstrike in southern Lebanon, with the Lebanese army confirming that a high-ranking officer was among those killed, just days following a newly established ceasefire agreement between the two nations.
The Saturday morning strike targeted the roadway connecting Nabatiyeh city to Marjayoun town. Military officials declined to provide additional information or identify the deceased soldiers by name or military rank.
Television news outlets in the region reported that the attack claimed the lives of two military members, with one being identified as a brigadier general.
The most recent ceasefire agreement emerged from negotiations facilitated by the United States between Israel and Lebanon’s government, which holds Hezbollah responsible for pulling the nation into conflict and had attempted to disarm the group prior to the current fighting. The Lebanese militant organization has rejected the ceasefire terms.
Hostilities commenced on March 2 following Hezbollah’s rocket attacks on northern Israel, occurring two days after Israel and the U.S. initiated their offensive against Iran. Israel subsequently launched a ground offensive into Lebanon and conducted extensive military operations that have forced over 1 million people from their homes. Israeli military actions have resulted in casualties among dozens of Lebanese military personnel.
Israeli forces have captured approximately one-fifth of Lebanese territory, advancing deeper into the country’s southern regions than at any point since Israel’s 1982-2000 occupation concluded.
The conflict has resulted in more than 3,500 deaths in Lebanon since fighting began. Israeli casualties include at least 29 soldiers and three civilians.
