Israeli Strikes in Lebanon Claim Lives, Including an Iranian Quds Force Officer
Multiple reports from various global media outlets confirm that recent Israeli strikes in Lebanon have resulted in the death of at least three individuals, including an officer from Iran's Quds Force. The attacks, which took place despite a ceasefire agreement implemented in November 2024, targeted areas in eastern and southern Lebanon.
Background and Context
The Israeli army has acknowledged conducting two separate air strikes in Ansariyah and Al Jumajimah areas of Lebanon, as reported by Middle East Eye. These strikes came despite a ceasefire agreement that has been in place since late 2024. Despite the ceasefire, Israel continues to carry out almost daily strikes in Lebanon, according to Al Jazeera English.
Key Developments
The Israeli military declared that it had killed an officer of the Quds Force in Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, Hussein Mahmoud Marshad al-Jawhari, in the Ansariyah area of Lebanon. The military accused Hussein of being involved in advancing plots against Israel from Syria and Lebanon. This detail was corroborated by multiple sources, including Middle East Eye, La Repubblica, and Deutsche Welle.
The Israeli army also announced they have targeted Hezbollah members and facilities in Lebanon. According to TASS, the Israeli military reported that the existence of such military facilities and the conduct of exercises constitute a violation of the understandings between Israel and Lebanon
on the ceasefire.
Israeli strikes also hit Hezbollah's Radwan Force training ground and weapon storage, as reported by Middle East Eye. The strikes took place near the town of Bsaliya in the Tuffah region of southern Lebanon and near the city of Hermel and Bekaa Valley in eastern Lebanon.
Casualties and Damage
Lebanon's National News Agency reported that an Israeli drone hit a car in the Bekaa Valley area, killing two people. In addition, Lebanese media reported an Israeli drone dropping a bomb on the town of Adaysseh in Lebanon. The Lebanese health ministry confirmed that Israeli strikes in south Lebanon killed one person and wounded another.
Implications and Reactions
The ongoing attacks have escalated tensions in the region, with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun instructing the commander of the army to confront any Israeli incursion into southern Lebanon
after Israeli forces crossed the border, according to Middle East Eye. Despite the ceasefire agreement, Israel has maintained troops in five southern areas it deems strategic.
Current Status
Despite the ceasefire agreement put in place in late 2024, the Israeli army continues to conduct regular strikes on Lebanese territory. The situation remains tense, with potential implications for regional stability and diplomatic relations.