Israeli Airstrike Hits Nabatiyeh Amid Escalating Conflict
An Israeli strike on the southern Lebanese city of Nabatiyeh killed at least 13 State Security personnel on Friday, according to a government agency source speaking to AFP. The attack formed part of multiple airstrikes carried out in the region, which left widespread destruction in the targeted area. The state-run National News Agency (NNA) reported that “enemy warplanes launched a series of heavy strikes,” including a direct hit near a government complex housing a State Security office. Moreover, an AFP photographer confirmed extensive damage at the site, where fires continued to burn after the bombardment. The strike comes as Lebanon prepares for upcoming ceasefire negotiations with Israel, adding further pressure to an already fragile situation.
Hezbollah Rejects Concessions as Diplomatic Talks Approach
Tensions rose further as Naim Qassem urged the Lebanese government to avoid making “free concessions” to Israel. He argued that Israel’s military campaign has failed to achieve its objectives. In addition, he insisted that resistance will continue until the end of the conflict. His comments came just days before planned negotiations between Lebanon and Israel aimed at ending a war that has killed nearly 1,900 people in Lebanon, according to local reports. Furthermore, Hezbollah continues to oppose bilateral talks, even though it holds representation in both parliament and the cabinet. Despite internal political divisions, the Lebanese government is moving forward with diplomatic preparations under international pressure.
Diplomatic Pressure Grows as Civilian Areas Face Risk
Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts have intensified to prevent further escalation, especially around Beirut. A Western diplomat told AFP that European, Gulf, and Egyptian officials are pressuring Israel to avoid renewed strikes on the capital. Earlier warnings from the Israeli military had raised fears of attacks near hospitals and key infrastructure, including roads leading to Beirut’s only international airport. However, officials later reported informal assurances that these sensitive areas would not be targeted. In addition, the World Health Organization urged Israel to cancel evacuation warnings affecting hospital zones in the Jnah district. At the same time, Israel claimed it had destroyed more than 4,300 Hezbollah sites, while Hezbollah reported rocket attacks on northern Israel and even claimed strikes on a naval base in Ashdod. As a result, the conflict continues to expand despite ongoing diplomatic efforts.
