Israeli Airstrikes in Lebanon Kill Two, Wound Seven in Ceasefire Violation

BEIRUT, Lebanon (AP) — Israeli airstrikes targeted Beirut's southern suburbs and areas in southern Lebanon on Thursday, killing two people and injuring seven in a strike on the Dahieh district, marking a fresh violation of the ceasefire agreement.

The attacks occurred around 9:51 a.m. local time, shaking communities that had hoped for stability following the truce. Emergency services rushed to the scene in Dahieh, a densely populated area in southern Beirut, where the explosions were felt across the neighborhood. Witnesses described the sound of multiple aircraft overhead before the strikes hit residential buildings.

Two individuals were confirmed dead in the Dahieh strike, while seven others were injured and transported to nearby hospitals. Medical officials stated that the injured were in critical condition, though their identities have not been released. The strikes also hit several locations in southern Lebanon, though no additional casualties were immediately reported from those areas.

The violence represents a significant breach of the ceasefire that has been in place, raising concerns about the fragility of the agreement. Regional observers and diplomats have expressed alarm at the escalation, warning that renewed hostilities could destabilize the broader area.

Lebanese officials condemned the attacks as a violation of international agreements and called for an immediate investigation. Israeli authorities have not yet issued a statement regarding the specific targets or justification for the strikes. The lack of clarification has fueled speculation about the intent behind the operation, though no official claims have been made.

Residents in Beirut and southern Lebanon have been urged to remain vigilant as tensions rise. Local authorities have set up emergency response teams to manage any further incidents. The situation remains fluid, with no indication of whether additional strikes are imminent.

The ceasefire, which was intended to bring an end to months of conflict, now faces renewed uncertainty. Questions remain about the circumstances surrounding the attacks and whether they were a targeted operation or part of a broader escalation. Diplomatic efforts to restore calm are expected to intensify in the coming hours.

As of Thursday afternoon, there was no confirmation of further casualties or damage from the strikes. The international community is watching closely, with calls for restraint from both sides to prevent a wider conflict. The incident has reignited fears that the region could be sliding back into open warfare.

The full extent of the damage and the identity of those killed are still being assessed. Families of the victims are awaiting news, while local leaders demand accountability. The situation in Lebanon remains tense, with the possibility of further violence looming over the fragile peace.