JERUSALEM: Tensions escalated between Israel and Lebanon on Thursday as the Israeli army carried out airstrikes on southern Lebanon in response to a mortar attack originating from its northern neighbor. The incident occurred in the border area that separates the two long-standing foes.
The Israeli military, known as the IDF, released a statement confirming their actions, stating, “In response, the IDF is currently striking the area from which the launch was carried out in Lebanese territory.” The IDF did not disclose specific details regarding the targets of the strikes.
Israel Fires More Than 15 Artillery Shells into Lebanon
Lebanon’s official ANI news agency reported that Israel had fired “more than 15 artillery shells,” which landed in the vicinity of the communities of Kfar Chouba and Halta. The impacts of the shelling on these areas remain unclear, and no casualties have been reported thus far.
The ongoing conflict between Israel and Lebanon dates back decades, with the two countries still technically at war. Border tensions have been heightened by the presence of peacekeepers from the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon, who patrol the border region to maintain stability.
This recent exchange of cross-border fire follows an incident in April when Israel launched a bombardment on Lebanon in response to a series of rocket attacks originating from Lebanese territory. The situation has further strained the delicate peace between the two nations.