Israeli forces launched precision airstrikes in southern Lebanon, targeting the towns of Tebnine and al-Mansouri. According to the Lebanese health ministry, the attacks killed at least one person and injured between 11 and 12 others, with a cemetery being hit in Tebnine. Residents of al-Mansouri were ordered to evacuate. Meanwhile, the Israeli military reported that two of its soldiers were killed in southern Lebanon.
The Israeli military stated it was compelled to conduct these targeted strikes after accusing Hezbollah of violating a June ceasefire. The escalation represents some of the deadliest bombings since the truce began, underscoring the fragility of the agreement.
The violence coincided with a new round of direct talks in Rome, brokered by the United States. These negotiations built upon a previous framework established in Washington, aiming for a long-term diplomatic settlement. Central to the discussions are the disarmament of Hezbollah and a phased withdrawal of Israeli forces from southern Lebanon.
Despite the ongoing diplomatic efforts, disagreements remain over the terms of disarmament and troop withdrawal. The Hezbollah chief has rejected the talks, describing them as a humiliation for Lebanon.