Israel Escalates Attacks Across Southern Lebanon Amid Diplomatic Push

Israel has intensified its military operations in southern Lebanon, conducting airstrikes, artillery shelling, and demolition operations in several towns. These actions coincide with diplomatic efforts aimed at securing a ceasefire and implementing an agreed framework. On Wednesday, an Israeli drone dropped explosive canisters on the town of Al-Mansouri, which also came under artillery fire. The Israeli military carried out demolitions in Al-Mansouri and another town, Bini Hayyan. Artillery also targeted the outskirts of Qubayrikha, while Israeli tanks were observed east of Khiyam, accompanied by heavy gunfire, according to the National News Agency.

Israeli heavy machine gun fire was directed at the town of Majdal Zoun, and surrounding areas of Beit Yahoun were subjected to machine gun sweeps. In the Nabatieh region, Israeli warplanes raided the outskirts of Nabatieh Al-Fawqa, and the Douha of Kfar Rammaan faced intermittent artillery shelling. Israeli warplanes were seen flying extensively over southern Lebanon, as buildings and homes were demolished in towns including Tyre Harfa, Al-Mansouri, and Bini Hayyan.

Concurrently, Israel's Home Front Command conducted a drill testing air raid sirens in northern and central Israel. In Beirut, Lebanese President Michel Aoun discussed the security situation and recent southern developments with Interior Minister Ahmed Al-Hajjar, focusing on enhancing security presence to ensure stability. The meeting also addressed the needs of internal security forces in preparation for a conference in Paris.

These escalations follow Israel's announcement on Thursday of control over the Ali Al-Taher heights near Nabatieh. Despite a declared ceasefire, Israel reportedly occupies significant areas in southern Lebanon and has established a "security zone" extending up to ten kilometers along the border, continuing demolition operations. The conflict in Lebanon began on March 2nd, after Hezbollah launched rockets toward Israel in response to the killing of Iranian cleric Ali Khamenei during U.S. and Israeli raids on Iran on February 28th.