Israel strikes Hezbollah sites in Lebanese territory

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have confirmed carrying out airstrikes on targets within deep Lebanese territory.

The IDF's press service issued a statement confirming the operation, detailing that Israeli Air Force aircraft were deployed, and the strikes were conducted based on intelligence gathered by the Military Intelligence Directorate, Caliber.Az reports, citing the IDF press service.

The targets included rocket launchers, a Hezbollah military facility, and weapons smuggling routes along the Syrian border.

The IDF also stated that prior to the operation, information about the threats to Israel's security was communicated to Lebanon via a mechanism designed to monitor compliance with the terms of the agreement. However, the Lebanese military took no action to neutralize the threat.

"The IDF will continue to thwart any attempts to restore or enhance the capabilities of the terrorist organization Hezbollah," the statement concluded.

A ceasefire agreement between Israel and Lebanon, initiated on November 27, 2024, is under significant strain. Both parties accuse each other of violations, and the situation remains delicate ahead of the coalition’s withdrawal deadline and the impending U.S. presidency of Donald Trump.

Hezbollah, a militant group based in Lebanon, is considered by Israel as a major threat due to its involvement in cross-border attacks, rocket launches, and other military activities aimed at Israel. Hezbollah is supported by Iran and Syria, which are adversaries of Israel, making the group a key player in the broader regional conflict.

Israel often conducts strikes on Hezbollah positions to prevent the group from building up its military capabilities, including the development of advanced weapons like long-range missiles and drones. Israel has stated that its goal is to degrade Hezbollah’s military infrastructure and prevent it from obtaining advanced weaponry that could be used against Israeli civilians or military forces.

By Khagan Isayev