Israel accused of fresh ceasefire violations as six Palestinians killed in Gaza

JERUSALEM/GAZA: Tensions in the Middle East escalated once again on Saturday as Israeli military operations reportedly continued despite an existing ceasefire, with Gaza’s Civil Defense agency saying at least six Palestinians were killed in fresh attacks across the besieged enclave.

According to Gaza Civil Defense officials, Israeli strikes targeted different parts of the territory, resulting in the deaths of six people and adding to concerns that the ceasefire has repeatedly been breached. Emergency teams were dispatched to recover victims and assist the injured as residents described another night of explosions and destruction.

The latest incidents came amid continuing military activity beyond Gaza. In southern Lebanon, Israeli forces were also accused of carrying out fresh attacks in border villages. Local reports said Israeli troops advanced with tanks and armored vehicles toward the Barakat al-Hammam area near Khiam during the night, while an Israeli drone strike reportedly wounded two people.

Residents and local officials further alleged that Israeli soldiers set fire to several homes in villages across Lebanon’s Marjeyoun district, causing additional damage to civilian property and forcing families to flee affected areas.

Lebanon’s Ministry of Health said Israeli military operations since March 2 have left 4,321 people dead, underscoring the heavy humanitarian toll of the cross-border conflict.

Meanwhile, tensions also rose in occupied East Jerusalem after Israeli authorities reportedly detained Sheikh Mohammed Hussein, the Grand Mufti of Jerusalem and the preacher of Al-Aqsa Mosque. The reported detention drew attention as concerns over access to the holy site continue to grow.

The latest developments highlight the fragile security situation across Gaza, southern Lebanon and Jerusalem, with renewed violence threatening efforts aimed at maintaining calm. International concern is expected to intensify as reports of civilian casualties and alleged ceasefire violations continue to emerge.