An Israeli strike in southern Lebanon killed two people on Friday, according to Lebanon’s state-run National News Agency (NNA).
The strike came despite a truce involving Israel and Iran-backed Hezbollah. The latest attack has raised fresh concerns about the fragile security situation in southern Lebanon.
NNA reported that the strike targeted two young men riding a motorcycle near the strategic Ali al-Taher ridge in Nabatieh.
Rescue teams recovered the bodies and transferred them to a local hospital, according to the report.
Israel Claims Control of Strategic Ridge
The Israeli military said it had captured the Ali al-Taher ridge in southern Lebanon.
Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said on Thursday that the military would work to prevent Hezbollah from rebuilding its presence in the area.
The development adds to tensions along the Lebanon-Israel border, where Israeli forces and Hezbollah have repeatedly exchanged fire.
Hezbollah has not confirmed the loss of control of the ridge.
Thousands Killed Since Conflict Escalated
Israel and Hezbollah began exchanging fire in March after Hezbollah launched attacks on Israel in support of Iran during the wider Middle East conflict.
Israel responded with extensive airstrikes and a ground offensive in parts of Lebanon.
Lebanese authorities say more than 4,300 people have been killed since the conflict began.
Fighting has since decreased following a US-Iran memorandum of understanding and a framework agreement between Israel and Lebanon reached in June.
However, Lebanese authorities continue to report Israeli military strikes despite the reduction in hostilities.
Returning Families Face Destruction and Insecurity
The latest strike comes as families attempt to return to communities affected by the fighting.
Imran Riza, the UN humanitarian coordinator for Lebanon, said families returning to Nabatieh continue to face widespread destruction.
He said many residents are also dealing with shortages of basic services, continuing security concerns and uncertainty about the future.
The latest deaths highlight the continuing risks facing civilians in southern Lebanon despite efforts to reduce tensions and maintain the fragile truce.
