Strikes in southern Lebanon kill 10 as Hezbollah rejects direct talks with Israel

Saturday 11 April 2026 - 13:45

At least 10 people were killed in Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon on Saturday, as political tensions escalated over the prospect of direct negotiations between Lebanon and Israel.

According to the Lebanese Health Ministry, the strikes targeted several locations in the Nabatieh district, including areas where emergency responders were operating. Among the victims were rescue workers affiliated with local civil defense and health services.

The attacks come amid ongoing hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah, which have intensified in recent weeks. Lebanese authorities have accused Israel of repeatedly targeting emergency personnel, describing the strikes as systematic.

Since the escalation of conflict earlier this year, thousands of people have been reported killed, while fighting has expanded to include ground operations in southern Lebanon.

Meanwhile, political divisions within Lebanon have deepened following announcements of planned diplomatic engagement with Israel. A senior figure from Hezbollah, Hassan Fadlallah, firmly rejected the idea of direct negotiations, calling them a violation of Lebanon’s constitutional framework and national principles.

He warned that such talks could worsen internal divisions at a time when national unity is critical to maintaining stability and avoiding further escalation.

The controversy follows confirmation by Lebanese officials that a preliminary meeting involving representatives from Lebanon and Israel is expected to take place in Washington under US mediation. The discussions are expected to address a potential ceasefire and outline a path toward negotiations.

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has previously supported the idea of internationally sponsored dialogue, while Prime Minister Nawaf Salam is under pressure to balance diplomatic engagement with internal political sensitivities.

Regional dynamics remain complex, as Iran and the United States continue parallel diplomatic efforts to address broader tensions. Israeli officials have indicated openness to formal peace discussions with Lebanon but have ruled out negotiating directly with Hezbollah.

The situation has also triggered protests in Beirut, with demonstrators opposing any engagement with Israel. The Lebanese army has warned against actions that could threaten internal stability, emphasizing its readiness to intervene if necessary.