Tensions along the Israel-Lebanon border flared on Friday after the Israeli military detected a suspected drone crossing from Lebanon, triggering air raid sirens in northern Israel’s Upper Galilee region. Interceptor missiles were fired at the target by air defense systems. Separately, warning notices were issued to residents in southern Lebanese border villages ahead of fresh Israeli strikes, and an explosion was reported around the coastal town of Mansouri, which has been hit multiple times in recent weeks.
The renewed strikes occurred despite a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hezbollah that took hold earlier this year. While the arrangement aimed to end major hostilities, Israeli forces continue strikes targeting what they describe as Hezbollah-linked infrastructure, and Israeli troops still occupy several positions inside southern Lebanon with no clear withdrawal timeline set. Lebanese officials view the strikes as violations of the ceasefire and international law, while Israeli officials argue they are necessary responses to Hezbollah’s remaining military capabilities.
Local monitoring groups reported the strikes amid a broader uptick in Israeli military activity across southern Lebanon, which has caused residents to flee their homes once again. No casualties had been confirmed from the drone incident and Friday’s strikes as of the time of reporting.