BEIRUT — Israeli forces conducted airstrikes in southern Lebanon on Monday following reported ceasefire violations by Hezbollah, the Israeli military said.
The strikes targeted areas in southern Lebanon after the Israeli military accused Hezbollah of firing projectiles into northern Israel, breaching a fragile U.S.-brokered ceasefire agreement reached earlier in June. Lebanese officials reported casualties from the attacks.
Lebanese state media and the health ministry said Israeli strikes hit several locations, including near Nabatieh and other southern towns, killing at least several people. Details on the exact number of casualties remained unclear as assessments continued.
The ceasefire, announced in early June, included commitments from Israel not to target certain areas in Beirut and from Hezbollah to halt attacks on Israel. Both sides have accused each other of violations since the agreement took effect.
"Hezbollah's continued attacks from Lebanese territory prompted the response to neutralize immediate threats," the Israeli military said in a statement. Lebanese authorities condemned the strikes as a breach of the ceasefire.
The Lebanese army reported that strikes hit a vehicle in southern Lebanon, resulting in deaths including Lebanese military personnel. Hezbollah said it responded to Israeli actions, according to statements reported by multiple outlets.
The escalation follows a period of relative calm under the partial truce, which aimed to allow for further negotiations and the deployment of Lebanese forces in pilot security zones in the south. Israeli officials have maintained positions in parts of southern Lebanon as part of security measures.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and other officials criticized the strikes, calling for full Israeli withdrawal and adherence to the ceasefire terms. The United Nations and mediators urged both parties to exercise restraint.
"Despite the ceasefire, violations continue to undermine efforts toward lasting stability," a Lebanese government statement said. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office has emphasized the need to address ongoing threats from Hezbollah.
Fighting in the broader conflict, which intensified earlier in 2026, has resulted in thousands of deaths and widespread displacement in Lebanon, according to Lebanese health authorities. Israel has reported civilian casualties from cross-border fire.
As of Monday evening, the situation along the border remained tense. Additional strikes or responses were not immediately reported. Diplomats continued efforts to reinforce the ceasefire amid mutual accusations.
The U.S. State Department and other international actors called for de-escalation and full implementation of the agreement. No immediate updates were available on further casualties or damage assessments.
