Tensions rise as Israel destroys tunnel in south Lebanon and Hezbollah warns of response

Fresh tensions emerged along the Lebanon Israel border on Sunday after the Israeli military destroyed what it described as a large underground tunnel in southern Lebanon

Fresh tensions emerged along the Lebanon Israel border on Sunday after the Israeli military destroyed what it described as a large underground tunnel in southern Lebanon. The operation was followed by a series of strikes in the area, while Hezbollah accused Israel of violating the ceasefire and declared that it reserves the right to defend the country against further attacks.

The latest developments came only two days after Lebanon and Israel signed a framework agreement under United States sponsorship aimed at reducing hostilities and creating a path toward a broader peace settlement. The agreement also includes plans for the gradual disarmament of Hezbollah through increased control by the Lebanese army in selected areas.

According to Israeli officials, the tunnel stretched for more than 200 metres and reached a depth of over 25 metres. They said it contained hundreds of weapons and several launch sites that could have been used to carry out attacks against Israel. Israeli leaders stated that Washington and its representative in Lebanon had been informed before the demolition took place.

Residents in southern Lebanon reported hearing a powerful explosion as the tunnel was destroyed. An AFP journalist in the coastal city of Tyre saw smoke rising near the village of Majdal Zoun, where the blast occurred. Local media reports prompted many people living in nearby towns to leave their homes as a precaution before the detonation.

Lebanon’s state news agency also reported several Israeli strikes across southern areas, including near the city of Nabatieh. The Lebanese health ministry said two people were injured after an Israeli stun grenade exploded in the south.

Hezbollah strongly criticised the Israeli military action and accused Israel of breaking the ceasefire that the group says it has respected until now. In a statement, Hezbollah said it was closely monitoring what it called repeated violations and maintained that it has the right to defend Lebanon and its people if attacks continue.

The Israeli military also announced that one of its soldiers had been killed during fighting in southern Lebanon. It later said its forces had killed a Hezbollah fighter who had engaged Israeli troops during the confrontation.

The situation remains highly sensitive despite recent diplomatic efforts. Under the newly signed agreement, Lebanon is expected to increase the deployment of its armed forces in designated areas while working toward reducing Hezbollah’s military presence. Israel has linked its withdrawal from occupied Lebanese territory to the successful implementation of these security measures.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the agreement as a significant achievement that weakens Iran’s influence in the region. Defence Minister Israel Katz also stated that Israeli troops would remain in parts of southern Lebanon until Hezbollah is fully disarmed.

Hezbollah has rejected the agreement from the beginning. The group’s leader, Naim Qassem, recently declared that the deal has no value and described it as a surrender of Lebanon’s sovereignty. Other senior Hezbollah figures have also criticised the agreement, warning that it could increase political divisions inside the country.

Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri also opposed the current terms of the agreement, arguing that it fails to protect Lebanon’s national interests. He pledged to challenge the deal through political means and warned against any actions that could lead to internal conflict.

As diplomatic efforts continue, Sunday’s military operation has highlighted the fragile security situation on the Lebanon Israel border. While international mediators are working to reduce tensions, both sides remain deeply divided over the future of the agreement and the role of Hezbollah in Lebanon’s security landscape.