JERUSALEM — Israeli forces conducted airstrikes in southern Lebanon on Tuesday despite warnings from Iran against further military operations in the country, Lebanese and Israeli officials said.
The strikes targeted areas near the coastal city of Tyre and other locations in southern Lebanon, killing at least 14 people and wounding dozens more, according to Lebanon's National News Agency and health officials. The Israeli military said the operations were aimed at Hezbollah targets in the region.
Iran had issued strong warnings in recent days that continued Israeli actions in Lebanon would trigger further responses, following an exchange of missile strikes between Iran and Israel earlier in the week. Tehran described the Israeli operations as violations of a fragile ceasefire arrangement.
Israeli officials maintained that the strikes were necessary to counter threats from Hezbollah, which has been engaged in cross-border activities. The Israeli military issued evacuation warnings for several villages in the area prior to the strikes, according to reports.
The developments come amid a complex regional situation involving a recent period of direct exchanges between Israel and Iran. Both sides had indicated a pause in their direct hostilities, but Israeli operations against Hezbollah-linked targets in Lebanon have continued.
Lebanese authorities reported strikes in multiple locations, including near a Red Cross center in Tyre. Details on the precise targets and extent of damage were still being assessed, with casualty figures attributed to Lebanese state media.
Iranian officials reiterated their position that any aggression in Lebanon would not go unanswered. "Should acts of aggression and hostility continue, including in southern Lebanon, much more severe and crushing measures than before will follow," an Iranian statement said, according to reports.
The United States has been involved in diplomatic efforts to manage tensions, with officials urging restraint from all parties. As of June 10, the situation on the ground remained fluid, with reports of ongoing Israeli military activity in southern Lebanon.
Lebanese leaders and international observers have expressed concern over the impact on civilians and the risk of broader escalation. Further details on diplomatic responses and the status of ceasefire understandings were expected in coming hours.
