Fragile Ceasefire Fractures as Israeli Strikes Kill 20 in Lebanon

Israeli military officials maintained they are operating defensively within a designated security zone, citing directives to respond only after Hezbollah launched more than 50 projectiles at their positions. The strikes, which hit southern Lebanon and the Bekaa Valley, claimed the lives of a family in the Tyre district and a Lebanese soldier near Nabatieh. Additionally, an airstrike destroyed the local branch of Lebanon's central bank, though no casualties were reported at the facility.

Hezbollah accused Israel of hundreds of ceasefire violations and claimed that Israeli forces attempted to infiltrate the Ali al-Taher hill area. While the militant group signaled it remains committed to the truce, it warned that any further attempts by Israel to expand its occupation or seize territory would be met with force. The situation remains volatile, with northern Israeli residents reporting persistent, loud blasts despite the official cessation of hostilities. Since March 2, Lebanon’s health ministry reports that 4,057 people have been killed, while Israel has recorded 36 deaths among its soldiers and civilians during the conflict.