Israel accused Hezbollah of violating a ceasefire that went into effect on Wednesday, hours after Lebanese security sources reported that Israeli tanks attacked six areas in southern Lebanon.
The ceasefire, brokered by the U.S. and France, was meant to allow displaced residents to return to their homes in the region after over a year of fighting.
The Israeli military claimed that the ceasefire was breached when suspicious individuals, some in vehicles, arrived in the southern zone.
Hezbollah lawmaker Hassan Fadlallah blamed Israel for attacking people attempting to return to their homes. The Israeli military had earlier advised residents not to return for their safety.
On Thursday morning, Israeli tank fire hit several areas near the Blue Line, including Markaba, Wazzani, Kfarchouba, Khiyam, Taybe, and Marjayoun, injuring at least two people. Despite the ceasefire, Israeli troops remain stationed in towns along the border, and surveillance drones continue to fly over southern Lebanon.
The ceasefire agreement, which followed a deadly confrontation between Israel and Hezbollah, also came amidst Israel’s ongoing conflict with Hamas in the Gaza Strip. Under the terms of the deal, Israeli forces have up to 60 days to withdraw from southern Lebanon, while both sides are barred from offensive operations.
Despite the ceasefire, Hezbollah has stated its forces are ready to act against Israeli actions in the region.
