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Israeli Strikes on Lebanon Kill 11, Ceasefire in Jeopardy
Israel launched its largest wave of airstrikes in Lebanon since a ceasefire with Hezbollah began last week, killing at least 11 people on Monday. The strikes followed Hezbollah firing projectiles, which it described as a warning against alleged Israeli truce violations.
The attack marks the first major escalation since the fragile 60-day ceasefire took effect, aimed at ending over a year of hostilities between Hezbollah and Israel, rooted in the broader Israel-Hamas conflict.
Lebanon's Health Ministry reported that Israeli strikes killed five people in Haris village and four in Tallousa, wounding four others in total. Earlier, a drone strike killed a motorcyclist, and an artillery barrage killed a Lebanese corporal.
Israel’s military said it targeted Hezbollah fighters, rocket launchers, and infrastructure in response to projectiles fired into the disputed Shebaa Farms region. No injuries were reported in Israel. Hezbollah claimed the attack was a "defensive response" to what it called repeated Israeli ceasefire violations.
Lebanon's parliament speaker accused Israel of over 50 ceasefire breaches, including airstrikes and demolitions near the border. Meanwhile, U.S. officials downplayed the escalation, with White House spokesperson John Kirby stating the truce was "largely holding," though violations persist.
Under the ceasefire terms, Hezbollah is expected to withdraw from southern Lebanon, while Israel will retreat to its borders within 60 days.
Trump's Warning Over Gaza Hostages
In the U.S., President-elect Donald Trump demanded the immediate release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas in Gaza, warning of severe consequences if they are not freed before his January inauguration. His comments followed confirmation of the death of a U.S.-Israeli dual citizen whose remains are believed to be held by Hamas.
Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza
In Gaza, hunger is intensifying as food supplies dwindle. The U.N. halted aid deliveries due to safety concerns, and experts warn of famine in northern Gaza. Displaced families live in dire conditions, relying on scarce humanitarian aid.
Israel reported allowing 56 food trucks into Gaza on Sunday, but aid remains insufficient. The World Food Program delivered assistance to only 300,000 Palestinians in November, far below the region's needs.
The conflict continues to strain the region, testing ceasefires and humanitarian efforts amid ongoing violence.