New Israeli strikes hit southern Lebanon despite extended truce

Saturday 16 May 2026 - 14:00

New Israeli airstrikes targeted southern Lebanon on Saturday despite the recent extension of a ceasefire agreement reached during negotiations between Israeli and Lebanese representatives in Washington.

According to Israeli military officials, the strikes focused on infrastructure linked to Hezbollah in several areas of southern Lebanon. The attacks came shortly after evacuation warnings were issued to residents of multiple villages in the regions of Saida and Nabatieh.

Lebanese media reported that many civilians fled toward Saida and Beirut following the warnings, as fears of escalating violence spread across the region. The strikes occurred even though both countries had agreed to extend the truce, which was initially scheduled to expire this weekend.

The ceasefire, which came into effect in April, was intended to reduce tensions after months of cross-border violence. However, sporadic clashes and military operations have continued, highlighting the fragility of the agreement.

Negotiations currently taking place in Washington represent one of the rare diplomatic contacts between Israel and Lebanon, two countries that do not maintain formal diplomatic relations. International observers view the discussions as an attempt to prevent a broader regional escalation.

Hezbollah, which is backed by Iran, has expressed opposition to the negotiations and continues to claim responsibility for attacks against Israeli military positions. The group says its actions are linked to ongoing tensions in southern Lebanon and northern Israel.

Since the beginning of the ceasefire, hundreds of people have reportedly been killed in military operations and airstrikes, according to official figures cited by international media. The broader regional conflict has also displaced large numbers of civilians and increased humanitarian concerns throughout the area.

Analysts warn that despite diplomatic efforts, the situation remains highly unstable. Continued military exchanges risk undermining the truce and expanding the conflict further across the Middle East.