Hezbollah launched a rocket attack on the Manara settlement in northern occupied territories following recent Israeli aggression, escalating tensions in the region. In a Thursday statement, the resistance movement declared the strikes were “in defense of Lebanon and its people” and in response to Israel’s violations of the 2024 ceasefire agreement.
The movement emphasized that it had maintained adherence to the ceasefire while Israel repeatedly breached it. “This response will continue until the Israeli-American aggression against our country and our people ceases,” the statement said, signaling a commitment to sustained defensive operations.
Casualties Mount Amid Renewed Violence
Earlier Israeli airstrikes targeted multiple areas across Lebanon, including the capital, Beirut. Initial reports from Lebanon’s health ministry indicated at least 182 deaths and 890 injuries. Subsequent updates raised the toll to 254 fatalities and 1,150 wounded.
Observers note that these attacks contravene the 2024 ceasefire agreement, which required Israel to halt escalatory actions against Lebanon. Since February 28, Israel, alongside U.S. forces, has intensified strikes on Iran while simultaneously increasing military operations in Lebanese territory, exacerbating regional instability.
Diplomatic Developments and Warnings
On Wednesday, U.S. President Donald Trump announced a temporary two-week pause in operations against Iran, citing a 10-point proposal from the Islamic Republic as a potential framework for negotiations. The proposal calls for a cessation of regional aggression, including hostilities in Lebanon, with Iran conditioning its defensive strikes on the halting of attacks by opposing forces.
Meanwhile, the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) warned that Iran is preparing a “regret-inducing response” to Israeli strikes on Lebanon, stressing that any assault on Hezbollah constitutes an assault on Iran itself. The development underscores the complex regional dynamics and the heightened risk of further escalation.
