An Israeli drone strike targeted a vehicle near the southern Lebanese city of Sidon on Monday, resulting in three fatalities according to Lebanese authorities. The attack occurred approximately 10 kilometers from the coastal city, marking one of the northernmost engagements in recent months.
The Israeli military confirmed the operation, stating it had ‘struck several Hezbollah terrorists in the area of Sidon.’ This development comes amid mounting international pressure on Lebanon to disarm the Iran-backed militant group, particularly in southern regions bordering Israel.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun emphasized that ongoing negotiations aim to ‘stop the hostilities, achieve Israel’s withdrawal, return prisoners held in Israel and return southern residents to their villages.’ These diplomatic efforts include unprecedented direct talks between Lebanese and Israeli civilian representatives under the ceasefire monitoring committee’s auspices.
Prime Minister Nawaf Salam announced that the Lebanese army’s plans for the initial phase of disarmament south of the Litani River are ‘days away from completion.’ The government has expressed readiness to proceed with subsequent phases extending north of the river based on military-prepared strategies.
The international monitoring committee, comprising representatives from Lebanon, Israel, the United States, France, and the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), continues to oversee these delicate proceedings. Despite a November 2024 ceasefire agreement, tensions persist with regular Israeli strikes targeting what it identifies as Hezbollah operatives.
According to AFP tallies of Lebanese health ministry reports, Israeli military actions have resulted in over 340 fatalities in Lebanon since the ceasefire took effect. Israel maintains troops in five strategic locations in south Lebanon, citing ongoing security concerns about Hezbollah’s rearmament activities.