Israeli forces executed fresh airstrikes across southern Lebanon, injuring multiple civilians just days before a scheduled US-Iran peace deal finalization. State media confirmed warplanes targeted Nabatieh al-Fawqa and Kfar Tebnit, while a drone strike hit Ansariyeh. Despite a general decline in violence following Monday’s truce announcement, these latest raids have killed at least five people.
Hezbollah has remained silent since Tuesday but leader Naim Qassem is expected to address the nation Wednesday. The group originally escalated the conflict in March after US-Israeli strikes killed Iran's supreme leader, prompting a massive Israeli ground and air campaign.
Diplomatic friction now threatens the impending agreement. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi declared that continued Israeli occupation violates the memorandum of understanding. Conversely, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated troops will remain as long as necessary. This divergence has sparked tension between Jerusalem and Washington.
President Donald Trump publicly urged Netanyahu to act responsibly, emphasizing American support is not unconditional. Trump faces domestic pressure over war-related inflation and seeks a definitive resolution. However, the deal's terms remain contested. While US officials claim no withdrawal is mandated, mediator Pakistan insists the pact requires ending all military operations in Lebanon.