Israeli Strikes Target Hezbollah Facility Amid Accusations of Ceasefire Breaches

 The Israeli Air Force launched an airstrike on a Hezbollah facility in southern Lebanon on Thursday, alleging it was used to store mid-range rockets. This marked the first airstrike since the implementation of a fragile ceasefire on Wednesday, designed to end over a year of hostilities between Israel and the Iran-backed group.

The Israeli military also reported firing at "suspects" in vehicles entering designated areas in the southern border zone, accusing Hezbollah of violating the truce. The ceasefire agreement, brokered by the United States and France, aims for a 60-day cessation of hostilities with the hope of achieving a permanent resolution.

Mutual Accusations of Violations

Hezbollah lawmaker Hassan Fadlallah accused Israel of breaching the ceasefire, claiming that Israeli forces targeted civilians attempting to return to border villages. “The Israeli enemy is attacking those returning to the border villages,” Fadlallah told reporters, adding, “There are violations today by Israel, even in this form.”

The Lebanese army supported these claims, accusing Israel of multiple ceasefire violations on Wednesday and Thursday. Meanwhile, the Israeli military asserted that it was responding to "suspicious activities" that posed a threat and breached the agreement's terms. Chief of the General Staff Herzi Halevi warned, “Any deviation from this agreement will be enforced with fire.”

Airstrikes and Border Tensions

Thursday’s airstrike reportedly targeted a site near Baysariyah, north of the Litani River. According to the ceasefire terms, unauthorized military facilities south of the river must be dismantled, but the agreement does not address facilities located north of the Litani.

Earlier in the day, Israeli tank fire struck five towns and agricultural fields within 2 kilometers of the Blue Line, the demarcation between Lebanon and Israel. Lebanese sources reported two injuries in these attacks. The Israeli military has declared this area a no-go zone, even after the ceasefire was agreed upon.

Displaced Civilians and Ongoing Hostilities

Displaced Lebanese families attempting to return to their properties in the border region have faced challenges, as Israeli troops remain stationed in several Lebanese towns. Surveillance drones have also been observed flying over southern Lebanon, further intensifying tensions.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed readiness for further conflict if the ceasefire collapses. "We are enforcing powerfully," Netanyahu said in an interview with Israel’s Channel 14. “But if needed, I directed the IDF to be prepared for intense war if there is a violation of the framework of the ceasefire.”

The exchange of accusations underscores the fragility of the ceasefire, as both sides remain on high alert. The international community continues to monitor the situation closely, amid fears of a broader regional escalation.