Times of Israel: Lebanon was warned of Hezbollah sites before airstrikes But took no action

Lebanese officials were informed about Hezbollah’s underground facilities prior to recent Israeli airstrikes in Beirut’s southern suburbs but failed to take any action, The Times of Israel reported, citing Israeli sources who spoke on condition of anonymity.

According to the sources, the Israel Defence Forces had notified the Lebanese Armed Forces of the locations nearly a week before conducting airstrikes on several buildings in Dahiyeh, the Hezbollah stronghold in southern Beirut. The IDF also issued prior warnings to civilians to evacuate the area.

Israeli officials said the lack of response from Lebanon violated existing understandings between the two countries meant to prevent escalation.

On the evening of June 5, Israeli Air Force jets struck targets in Dahiyeh for the first time in a long period. The strikes destroyed Hezbollah's underground facilities used for the manufacturing and storage of drones. The sites belonged to the group’s 127th aerial unit, which has launched more than 1,000 drones during the current war for both attacks and reconnaissance missions inside Israeli territory.

In reaction to the strikes, the Lebanese Army threatened to halt its cooperation with the Ceasefire Monitoring Committee, voicing strong protest over the Israeli bombardment of Dahiyeh.

By Tamilla Hasanova