BEIRUT: Israeli airstrikes and drone attacks continued across southern Lebanon despite a recently declared ceasefire, killing at least 32 people within 24 hours, according to Lebanese health and civil defence officials.
Local authorities reported that multiple locations in the south, including residential areas and rural outskirts, were struck early on June 20 and into June 21, resulting in significant civilian casualties and damage to infrastructure. Rescue teams said several wounded were transported to nearby hospitals as emergency operations continued overnight.
The renewed violence comes just hours after diplomatic efforts had signaled a tentative reduction in hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah. However, both sides have repeatedly accused each other of violating ceasefire terms, leading to renewed exchanges of fire.
Israeli officials have not immediately commented on the latest reported casualties, while Lebanese authorities have condemned the strikes as a “clear breach” of the truce and a threat to regional stability.
The escalation has raised concerns among international observers that the fragile ceasefire could collapse entirely, potentially widening the conflict and complicating ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at preventing further regional spillover.
