Image: Hussein Malla/AP/picture alliance
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(The Post News)– A fragile truce between Israel and Hezbollah was shattered on Monday when the Lebanese militia group launched a surprise attack on an Israeli military position near the border. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu swiftly condemned the attack, labeling it a “grave infringement” of the ceasefire agreement.
Hezbollah claimed the attack was a “defensive warning strike” in response to alleged Israeli violations of the ceasefire. The group cited instances of shelling and artillery fire in Lebanon, which they claim prompted their retaliatory action.
The Israeli military reported that Hezbollah launched two missiles at the disputed Shebaa Farms area, also known as Mount Dov. Fortunately, no casualties were reported. Netanyahu vowed a strong response to the breach, stating, “Hezbollah’s firing at Mount Dov constitutes a serious violation of the ceasefire, and Israel will respond strongly to this.”
Netanyahu’s defense minister, Israel Katz, echoed this sentiment, warning of a “harsh response” to the attack. The Israeli military subsequently announced that it was firing on “targets” in Lebanon, with Lebanese state media reporting airstrikes in the vicinity of Jbaa, approximately 12 miles from the border.
The international community is closely monitoring the situation, urging both parties to respect the ceasefire and work towards a lasting resolution. As tensions continue to escalate, one thing is clear: the fragile truce between Israel and Hezbollah hangs precariously in the balance.