Daijiworld Media Network – Beirut

Beirut, Jan 13: Tensions flared along the Lebanese-Israeli border as an Israeli airstrike killed three individuals near the Shebaa farms area in southern Lebanon, according to a Lebanese military source. The attack, carried out by an Israeli drone in the Bastra area south of Shebaa, marks another breach of the ceasefire between Hezbollah and Israel.

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) stated that the airstrike targeted ‘suspects’ near the contested Shebaa farms, which Israel annexed decades ago. Lebanon’s general directorate of civil defence later reported the recovery of multiple bodies across southern Lebanon, including eight remains in Naqoura, two in Khiam, and others in Biyyadah and Tayr Harfa.

In a significant escalation, Israeli warplanes launched airstrikes Sunday night near Baalbek in eastern Lebanon. Lebanon’s National News Agency (NNA) reported that the strikes targeted Jenta in the Baalbek-Hermel district, though details of casualties remain unclear. Southern Lebanon also endured six intense airstrikes across multiple areas, per NNA reports.

The fragile ceasefire, brokered by the US and France in November 2024, was intended to end over 14 months of conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. It stipulated an Israeli withdrawal from Lebanese territory within 60 days and a Lebanese army takeover of border security, banning weapons and militants in the region.

Despite these terms, sporadic airstrikes and accusations of ceasefire violations from both sides continue to strain the agreement. Israel claims Hezbollah is undermining the deal by maintaining a militant presence in border areas.

The latest escalation underscores the precarious nature of peace in the region, with both sides trading blame for violations. Regional observers warn that these developments could derail the fragile truce if not contained.