BEIRUT — Israeli forces carried out strikes in southern Lebanon on Saturday, hours after a ceasefire agreement with Hezbollah took effect, as the fragile truce showed signs of strain.
Lebanese officials reported that the strikes killed at least 16 people, according to civil defence and state media. Israel said its military targeted Hezbollah positions in response to projectiles fired by the group.
The ceasefire, announced on Friday and mediated with involvement from the United States and Qatar, was set to begin in the afternoon. A U.S. official confirmed the agreement between Israel and the Iran-backed Hezbollah.
Lebanon’s state news agency NNA reported Israeli warplanes and drones hit multiple locations in the south and the Bekaa Valley. An Israeli military official said Hezbollah fired more than 50 projectiles overnight, prompting the response against what were described as Hezbollah targets.
Hezbollah said it had committed to the ceasefire but accused Israel of violations. Israeli officials maintained that their actions were in response to breaches by the militant group. Details of casualties from one side or the other remained subject to verification from respective authorities.
The exchanges followed intense fighting on Friday, when Lebanese health authorities said Israeli strikes killed dozens. Israel reported the deaths of four of its soldiers in an attack near Nabatieh.
The latest flare-up comes amid a broader 2026 conflict in Lebanon that has caused significant casualties and displacement on both sides. Israel has maintained forces in parts of southern Lebanon, describing the presence as a security measure. Hezbollah has called for a full withdrawal.
A senior U.S. official and regional sources indicated efforts to renew calm after the initial ceasefire announcement. On Saturday, reports emerged of renewed agreement to hold the truce following the flare-up.
Lebanese authorities and international observers continue to monitor the situation along the border. No immediate further details on additional casualties or the precise status of ground operations were available as of Saturday evening.
