IDF Investigates Civilian Casualties After Strikes in Southern Lebanon

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed on Monday that its strikes in southern Lebanon, including in the village of Riman, were a response to Hezbollah launching two explosive drones towards Israeli forces on Al-Tahir ridge. Following the drone attack, the IDF targeted Hezbollah infrastructure in several areas of southern Lebanon, including a weapons depot, and attacked operatives identified transferring weapons near Riman, aiming to neutralize the threat.

One of these strikes reportedly hit a vehicle in Riman, killing two individuals. According to the Associated Press, the vehicle belonged to the Lebanese Scout and Rescue Association "Al-Risala," and one of the fatalities was a medic from the organization, with two others injured. Simultaneously, reports from Lebanon indicated a separate strike in Riman hit a building occupied by numerous people, resulting in nine deaths, including women and children, and wounding eleven others.

The IDF stated that measures were taken to minimize harm to non-combatants, such as using precision munitions and aerial observation, and that a claim regarding civilian casualties is currently under investigation. The military also reported that in response to the drone launches, it attacked the Nabatieh area and eliminated several Hezbollah operatives. The IDF reiterated its commitment to preventing Hezbollah from harming Israeli civilians and forces, and to removing threats while adhering to the ceasefire.

Residents described living in constant fear of bombings. One Riman resident told AP that the latest strikes hit the "heart of the village." Another resident stated that the building hit housed families and children. Lebanese media reported seven additional deaths from strikes on Sunday, and Lebanese President Michel Aoun warned of a "dangerous escalation" threatening the ceasefire.

Separately, the IDF reported that during searches by the Golani Brigade in the Beaufort area, a Hezbollah operative who fired at forces was killed in a close-quarters engagement. Two IDF soldiers were lightly wounded and evacuated for medical treatment. The IDF also attacked additional Hezbollah weapons depots, command posts, and terror infrastructure in the area, reaffirming its stance against Hezbollah attacks on Israel.