Israeli Strikes Kill 12 in Lebanon as Ceasefire Tensions Escalate

Fresh Israeli air raids have killed at least 12 people and injured dozens across Lebanon, marking another serious breach of the fragile 2024 ceasefire agreement between Israel and the armed group Hezbollah.

Deadly Strikes in Bekaa Valley

According to Lebanon’s National News Agency (NNA), Israeli airstrikes targeted the eastern Bekaa Valley, particularly the town of Riyaq. Initial reports confirmed six deaths, but the toll later rose to more than 10, with at least 30 people wounded. Rescue operations are still underway as emergency teams search for survivors trapped under rubble.

The Israeli military stated it struck “Hezbollah command centres” in the Baalbek area. Meanwhile, a source told AFP that a Hezbollah military leader was among those killed in the attack.

Attack on Ein el-Hilweh Refugee Camp

Earlier the same day, at least two people were killed in an Israeli drone strike on the Ein el-Hilweh Palestinian refugee camp near Sidon Lebanon’s largest refugee camp.

The Israeli army claimed it targeted a Hamas command centre operating from within the camp, accusing the group of violating ceasefire terms. However, Hamas denied the claim, calling it a “fabrication” and stating that it does not operate training facilities inside Lebanese refugee camps.

Lebanese authorities reported significant damage to a building that was allegedly being used to distribute food aid at the time of the strike.

Ceasefire Under Strain

Despite the November 2024 ceasefire agreement aimed at ending over a year of hostilities, Israeli strikes have continued. According to the United Nations, Israel has launched more than 10,000 air and ground attacks since the truce.

The UN human rights office verified at least 108 civilian casualties since the ceasefire began, including women and children.

Lebanon has formally complained to the UN Security Council over repeated violations, urging international pressure on Israel to withdraw from occupied areas in southern Lebanon and halt further military operations.

Regional Implications

The ongoing strikes highlight the fragile security situation along the Israel-Lebanon border. With tensions involving Hezbollah, Hamas, and other regional armed groups, the risk of broader escalation remains high.

As diplomatic efforts struggle to hold the ceasefire together, civilians on both sides continue to bear the brunt of renewed violence.