Nine Die in Israeli Strikes on Southern Lebanon, Authorities Report
The Lebanese government confirmed that nine civilians were killed in a series of Israeli airstrikes on the night of 15 August, the first major attacks following a ceasefire framework agreed in June. The strikes hit densely populated villages on the outskirts of Ansar and the town of Deir al‑Zahrani, where displaced families were gathered.
According to state media, the Ansar strike resulted in the deaths of seven people – three children and two women – and the destruction of a residential house. The Ministry of Health later added that two residents were killed in Deir al‑Zahrani, with another nine injured. Footage circulating on social media shows smoke rising from the villages and emergency workers searching through rubble.
Prime Minister Nawaf Salam condemned the attacks, stating that the victims were not “military infrastructure.” He urged Israel to end the escalation and protect Lebanese civilians, saying that their right to life should not be subject to negotiation. The President also denounced “repeated violations” of the ceasefire, claiming the strikes sent a clear message to US‑led talks.
The IDF said it had struck “Hezbollah terror infrastructure” in the Ali al‑Taher Ridge, a high ground overlooking southeastern Lebanon and a key area in the conflict. The Israeli forces confirmed the presence of a 10‑km‑deep security buffer in the region, which is still occupied by them. Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem criticized the Lebanese leadership for allowing continued bombardments, accusing them of giving Israel leverage against the army.
The June ceasefire framework, still in effect, calls for disarmament of Hezbollah, a gradual withdrawal of Israeli troops from southern Lebanon, and a comprehensive deployment of the Lebanese army throughout the area. Despite some reductions in fighting, Israeli strikes and demolitions continue, according to the Lebanese state‑run news agency. Negotiations between the parties are slated for September, though no exact date has yet been fixed.
The latest strikes underline the fragile nature of the peace process and the looming humanitarian crisis as communities remain vulnerable to sudden aerial attacks. The international community has called for restraint, but the cycle of retaliation between Israel and Hezbollah continues to threaten the safety of residents in the border zone.
