Lebanon Warns Israeli Strikes Risk Escalation Despite Ongoing Ceasefire Efforts

Lebanon has warned that recent Israeli airstrikes are undermining ongoing efforts to prevent a wider escalation, despite an existing ceasefire arrangement aimed at maintaining calm along the border.

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun condemned the latest wave of strikes, stating that continued military action threatens diplomatic and regional initiatives designed to de-escalate tensions. His remarks followed Israeli attacks carried out in southern and eastern parts of Lebanon, which Israeli forces said targeted positions linked to Hezbollah and Hamas.

According to Lebanese officials, some of the strikes were preceded by evacuation warnings in select villages, while others occurred without prior notice. An overnight strike near the southern coastal city of Sidon caused significant damage to a building and surrounding commercial areas, triggering fires that emergency services later brought under control.

In a formal statement, President Aoun said the continued attacks were obstructing efforts made by Lebanon and international partners to stabilise the situation. He stressed that such actions persist despite what he described as Lebanon’s constructive engagement with ceasefire mechanisms at multiple levels.

Although a ceasefire has been in place for over a year between Israel and Hezbollah, Israel has continued to conduct strikes in Lebanon, often citing the presence of militant infrastructure. Israeli officials said the latest operations targeted weapons storage sites and military facilities, both above and below ground.

The developments come ahead of a scheduled meeting of a ceasefire monitoring committee that includes representatives from the United Nations, the United States, France, Lebanon and Israel. The committee is expected to review the security situation and assess compliance with existing arrangements. Separately, Lebanon’s cabinet is set to discuss progress on efforts to extend state authority in the south, including steps taken by the Lebanese army to address the issue of armed groups operating near the border. The government has said the army has been carrying out its mandate with professionalism and discipline, particularly in areas south of the Litani River.

Israel has previously expressed scepticism over the effectiveness of these measures, arguing that militant groups continue to rebuild capabilities. The situation remains tense, with both sides exchanging warnings as diplomatic and military pressures converge in the region.