Israel Warns Lebanon of Military Escalation, Demands Hezbollah Disarmament

Tensions on the Israel-Lebanon border have sharply escalated. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz issued a stark warning to Lebanon on Sunday. He accused the Hezbollah militant group of “playing with fire.”

Katz called for Lebanon to enforce a disarmament agreement. He threatened a more intense military response if threats to northern Israel continue. This follows a reported Israeli airstrike that killed four people in southern Lebanon.

Hezbollah Actions Prompt Stern Israeli Ultimatum

The Israeli defense minister was unequivocal in his statement. He said enforcement efforts would continue and intensify. The safety of northern Israeli residents was cited as the primary reason.

According to Reuters, Israel maintains troops in five areas of southern Lebanon. Regular air strikes have continued despite a ceasefire agreement from November 2024. The Israeli military claims these operations target Hezbollah infrastructure and personnel.

The recent strike occurred in the Nabatiyeh district. The Lebanese National News Agency reported a car was hit with a guided missile. A preliminary toll from the health ministry confirmed four deaths and three injuries.

US Diplomacy Reinforces Pressure on Lebanon

The international dimension of the conflict is also intensifying. US Special Envoy for the Middle East, Thomas Barrack, commented on the situation. His statements, reported by The Associated Press, placed responsibility squarely on Lebanon.

Barrack criticized Lebanon for not aligning with new Middle East realignments. He described the state as effectively being “Hezbollah.” This suggests a firm US backing for Israel’s position and potential next steps.

The US envoy indicated America would not get deeply involved with a “foreign terrorist organisation.” He implied that Lebanon itself must resolve the Hezbollah issue. This stance removes a potential buffer for Lebanon and aligns Western power strategy with Israel’s security demands.

The situation remains highly volatile. The escalating Israel Hezbollah conflict now hinges on Lebanon’s next move. A failure to rein in the militant group could trigger a significant military confrontation.

Info at your fingertips

What triggered the latest escalation between Israel and Lebanon?

The immediate trigger was an Israeli airstrike that killed four people in southern Lebanon. Israel states these strikes target Hezbollah, which it accuses of threatening northern Israel.

What is the US position on the conflict?

US Special Envoy Thomas Barrack has placed blame on Lebanon. He stated the US would not intervene deeply and described Lebanon as a state controlled by Hezbollah.

Is the ceasefire from 2024 still in effect?

A ceasefire agreement was signed in November 2024. However, it is fragile, as Israel has continued military operations and airstrikes in southern Lebanon throughout the period.

How many casualties were reported in the recent strike?

The Lebanese health ministry reported four people were killed. Three others were wounded in the airstrike in the Nabatiyeh district.

What is Israel’s main demand?

Israel’s central demand is for Lebanon to disarm Hezbollah. It insists on the group’s removal from southern parts of the country as per previous agreements.

Trusted Sources

Reuters, The Associated Press, Lebanese National News Agency.