Israeli army kills Hezbollah operative in southern Lebanon

The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) carried out a targeted operation in southern Lebanon, killing a Hezbollah militant involved in restoring military infrastructure near Deir Qanoun.

According to the IDF's press service, the eliminated operative was engaged in activities aimed at rebuilding the group’s military facilities, in violation of existing agreements between Israel and Lebanon, Caliber.Az reports.

“The terrorist’s actions constituted a violation of the understandings between Israel and Lebanon. The IDF will continue to act to eliminate any threat to the State of Israel,” the army’s statement read.

Recent strikes in southern Lebanon come amid a US- and French-mediated ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah that took effect in November 2024, following more than a year of intense fighting, with both sides accusing each other of violating the agreement.

Israel has frequently conducted airstrikes and drone operations in southern and eastern Lebanon, targeting Hezbollah fighters and infrastructure, while Lebanese authorities and international observers report ongoing breaches of the truce.

Hezbollah, an Iran-backed militant and political group in Lebanon, continues to station armed forces south of the Litani River and resists full disarmament, claiming its weapons are necessary to deter Israeli attacks.

Tensions remain high, with both sides exchanging accusations, while diplomatic efforts continue to manage the situation and prevent a renewed large-scale conflict.

By Jeyhun Aghazada