Just days after Lebanon and Israel agreed to a conditional ceasefire in talks led by the United States, Israeli attacks across southern Lebanon have killed at least 12 people. Among the dead are high-ranking officers from the Lebanese army.
The Lebanese military confirmed that a brigadier general, a captain, and a soldier died when an Israeli strike hit their military vehicle on the Khardali-Nabatieh road. The attack has shocked the country, especially because it followed recent hopes for calm.
The Israeli army defended the attack, saying it took place in what they called an “active combat zone.” They added that any movement in such an area requires coordination with the Israeli military. They also said the incident is still under investigation.
But Lebanon’s army strongly rejected that explanation. In a statement, it accused Israel of carrying out “deliberate and repeated brutal aggression.” It said these attacks are meant to ruin all efforts to reach a real solution to the conflict.
Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun called the strike a “flagrant violation” of his country’s sovereignty and international law. The prime minister, Nawaf Salam, went further, describing the attack as a “heinous crime” against all Lebanese people.
Prime Minister Salam also sent his condolences to the families of the three soldiers who died: Brigadier General Wassam Sabra, Captain Elie Khoury, and soldier Hussein Ghozal. He also expressed sympathy to the entire Lebanese army.
Later on Saturday, the Lebanese army announced that its commander, General Rudolf Haykal, is on his way to Pakistan for talks with Pakistan’s military leader, Field Marshal Asim Munir.
This visit is important because Pakistan has been trying to mediate talks to end the US-Israel war on Iran. One of the main issues blocking progress is exactly what is happening now—Israeli attacks on Lebanon. General Haykal’s trip shows Lebanon is looking for new allies and diplomatic support as the violence continues.
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