Israel strikes southern Lebanon, Hezbollah Commander reportedly killed

BEIRUT: A fragile ceasefire in southern Lebanon is facing another major test after Israeli strikes killed at least 11 people, including civilians, according to Lebanese officials and international media reports. Israel said the attacks targeted Hezbollah positions and claimed to have killed a senior commander.

The Israeli military said it had targeted Hezbollah infrastructure in southern Lebanon and claimed that a Hezbollah commander, identified in reports as Abu Hassan, was killed. Israeli officials have described the strikes as a response to Hezbollah activity in the area.

Lebanese officials, however, said civilians were among those killed in the attacks. Reports said three children and two women were among the victims, while several others were wounded. One of the strikes reportedly hit a home in the village of Ansar, where members of the same family were killed.

The latest violence comes despite a ceasefire intended to prevent a renewed escalation between Israel and Hezbollah. The continued strikes have raised fresh fears that the fragile truce could unravel.

Lebanon’s leadership has condemned the attacks, warning that continued military action could undermine efforts to restore stability along the border.

The escalation also comes amid unresolved disputes over Hezbollah’s weapons and Israel’s military presence in southern Lebanon. With tensions still high, residents in affected communities remain fearful that another cycle of violence could begin.