Israel has launched a new wave of air strikes across Lebanon, including the Bekaa Valley, after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced an intensified campaign against Hezbollah.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said the strikes targeted Hezbollah positions, while Hezbollah reported carrying out 22 retaliatory drone and rocket attacks against Israeli military sites.
In a video statement on Monday (25 May) evening, Netanyahu said Israel was “at war with Hezbollah” and the military has been told to “deal them a crushing blow”.
Netanyahu said Israel’s military offensive against Hezbollah had “eliminated… over 600 terrorists”.
He continued: “But what this requires of us now is to increase the strikes, to increase the intensity.”
Key developments:
- Hezbollah accused Israel of violating the extended 45-day ceasefire agreed earlier this month.
- Lebanese President Joseph Aoun renewed calls for a full Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon.
- Officials from Lebanon and Israel are expected to continue negotiations in Washington next week.
The escalation comes amid wider regional tensions involving Iran, ongoing ceasefire disputes, and continued displacement across southern Lebanon.
ℹ️ BBC News
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