BEIRUT: Israel continued its military operations in southern Lebanon on Thursday, violating the ceasefire agreement that has been in place since November 27. The Israeli air force conducted raids in the Al Bureij area on the northern outskirts of the Iqlim Al Tuffah region, deploying two air-to-ground missiles. The explosions were heard across the Iqlim Al Tuffah and Nabatieh regions, marking the first such incident since the ceasefire was established.
According to Qatar News Agency, Israeli military aircraft also targeted the area between Zhalta and Jbaa in southern Lebanon. Earlier in the day, an Israeli patrol, supported by Merkava tanks, vehicles, and a bulldozer, infiltrated the outskirts of Beit Lif, a town in southern Lebanon. During this operation, Israeli soldiers searched multiple homes and nearby forests.
In addition to these incursions, Israeli reconnaissance planes were observed flying at low altitudes over Tyre and its surrounding villages, while Israeli warplanes were noted over the capital, Beirut, and its southern suburbs. These activities have raised tensions and concerns about further escalations in the region.
Despite the ceasefire announcement on November 27, Israeli forces continue to maintain a presence in more than 30 Lebanese border villages and towns. The ceasefire terms require the withdrawal of occupying forces from these areas within 60 days, a deadline that appears to be unmet as military actions persist.