Israel Intensifies Airstrikes on Hezbollah in South Lebanon
Escalating tensions in southern Lebanon have resulted in intensified airstrikes by Israel targeting Hezbollah positions. These attacks occurred on July 11, 2025, just hours after Hezbollah urged the Lebanese government to avoid negotiations regarding the group’s disarmament.
Hezbollah’s Stance and Israeli Response
Israeli army spokesperson Avichay Adraee indicated that several towns along the Mediterranean coast and the Lebanon-Israel border were warned to evacuate ahead of the strikes. The military focused on what it classified as Hezbollah military infrastructure, including weapons storage facilities situated in residential areas. The Israeli government reiterated its objective, stating it would not permit Hezbollah to rebuild its military strength.
Shosh Bedrosian, an Israeli government spokesperson, emphasized the necessity to prevent Hezbollah from rearming. The airstrikes reportedly caused one injury, despite many residents vacating the targeted areas in advance.
Lebanon’s Response to Israeli Aggression
In Beirut, Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam convened his cabinet to discuss a plan aimed at disarming Hezbollah and other armed groups in Lebanon. Following this meeting, Information Minister Paul Morcos acknowledged progress made by the Lebanese military despite ongoing Israeli hostility.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun criticized Israel’s actions, suggesting that they contradict the country’s willingness to engage in peaceful negotiations. He remarked that almost a year after a US-brokered ceasefire was enacted, Israel had shown a consistent rejection of diplomatic solutions.
Conflict Background
The tension traces back to Hezbollah’s rocket attacks on northern Israel in support of Hamas, prompting Israeli military retaliation. Both parties have accused each other of violating the ceasefire, which came into effect last November and ostensibly ended their conflict.
Casualties and Impacts
Since the ceasefire, Israeli military actions have reportedly resulted in over 270 fatalities and around 850 injuries according to Lebanon’s health ministry. Analysts note that Israel’s extensive air campaign, commencing in September 2024, has already diminished Hezbollah’s military capabilities significantly.
The ongoing conflict leaves a grim outlook, with both sides remaining entrenched in their positions and unwilling to compromise. The situation continues to evolve as international observers watch closely for any developments in this volatile region.
