IDF Conducts Airstrikes on Hezbollah Sites in Southern Lebanon Amid Rising Tensions

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) carried out a series of airstrikes on Thursday, targeting Hezbollah's Radwan force infrastructure and weapon depots in southern Lebanon. The IDF stated that these actions were a response to Hezbollah's continued military activities and warned of intensified operations unless the group is disarmed.

According to the Lebanese health ministry, the strikes resulted in one fatality and one injury. Prior to the attacks, Israel issued evacuation orders for several towns, including Kfar Dounine, Zawtar al-Sharqiyah, Ayta al-Jabal, Taybeh, and Tayr Debba, advising residents to maintain a 500-meter distance from specified locations.

An IDF official emphasized the potential for escalated military action, stating, "If the Lebanese army does not disarm Hezbollah and fails to meet the demands of the ceasefire, Israel, with US backing, will attack Hezbollah targets across Lebanon, including in Beirut."

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun condemned the airstrikes, describing them as a violation of international law and a "despicable political crime." He reiterated Lebanon's openness to negotiations but accused Israel of ongoing aggression.

The airstrikes occurred amid discussions within Israel's security cabinet regarding Hezbollah's rearmament efforts. Israel has reportedly provided evidence to the United States and France, both involved in monitoring the ceasefire, concerning Hezbollah's activities and the Lebanese Armed Forces' (LAF) challenges in disarming the group.

In a related development, the United States imposed sanctions on three Hezbollah members involved in financial transactions for the group. John Hurley, the Treasury Department official overseeing sanctions against extremist organizations, stated, "Lebanon has an opportunity to be free, prosperous and secure — but that can only happen if Hezbollah is fully disarmed and cut off from Iran's funding and control."

The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah escalated in October 2023, leading to a ceasefire in November 2024. Despite the truce, tensions have persisted, with both sides accusing each other of violations. The Lebanese army has been working to disarm Hezbollah, aiming to clear all of southern Lebanon of unauthorized arms by the end of the year. However, Hezbollah has vowed not to lay down its weapons.