Israeli Air Strikes Claim 12 Lives in Bekaa Valley, Escalating Tensions

In a serious escalation of military action, Israeli air strikes in Lebanon's Bekaa Valley have killed 12 individuals, including a family of five. The attacks targeted Hezbollah compounds, prompting widespread concern about a return to conflict in the area.

At least 12 people have died due to Israeli air strikes in Lebanon's eastern Bekaa Valley, as reported by regional governor Bachir Khodr. The casualties include seven Syrians, among them a family of five, and three Lebanese individuals, with others killed in Shmustar. The Israeli military confirmed it targeted multiple military sites linked to Hezbollah, including training camps associated with its elite Radwan Force, marking the deadliest incidents since a ceasefire was established following a prolonged conflict last year.

Hezbollah has yet to issue a formal response, but its Al-Manar TV channel denounced the strikes as violations of the ceasefire agreement and Lebanese sovereignty. Israeli military spokesperson Lt Col Avichay Adraee stated that the air strikes aimed at disrupting Hezbollah's logistical capabilities and preventing future threats to Israel.

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz emphasized that these actions demonstrate Israel's readiness to counter any attempts at rebuilding Hezbollah's military strength. The ceasefire agreement, brokered by US mediators in November 2023, requires Hezbollah to limit its military activities and maintain a sanctioned distance from the Israeli border, while Israel retains a military presence at certain strategic sites in southern Lebanon.

This latest conflict raises serious concerns about regional stability, as both Hezbollah and the Lebanese government are navigating the repercussions of these attacks amidst calls for disarmament of armed groups within Lebanon.