Israeli forces launched artillery and airstrikes in southern Lebanon on Saturday. This came after Israel intercepted rockets fired from across the border.

Ceasefire at Risk

The attack threatens a fragile ceasefire that ended a year-long war between Israel and Hezbollah. That conflict was the deadliest spillover of the Gaza war. After months of tension, it escalated into a massive Israeli offensive. As a result, Hezbollah lost top commanders, many fighters, and much of its arsenal.

First Strikes Since Ceasefire Ended in Gaza

This marks the first military action since Israel ended a separate ceasefire with Hamas in Gaza. Both Hezbollah and Hamas are backed by Iran, Israel’s main rival.

Rocket Interception and Response

Earlier that day, Israel’s military intercepted three rockets from Lebanon. The attack came from a location six kilometers (four miles) inside Lebanon. This was the second such incident since a US-brokered ceasefire in November.

In response, Israeli artillery struck two towns. Airstrikes hit three more near the border, according to Lebanon’s state news agency. However, there were no reports of casualties on either side.

Israel Warns of Strong Retaliation

The Israeli military warned that it would “respond severely to the morning’s attack.” However, officials were still investigating who launched the rockets at Metula, an Israeli border town. Hezbollah did not immediately comment.

Ceasefire Terms Under Threat

Under the November ceasefire agreement, Hezbollah was supposed to disarm in southern Lebanon. Israeli troops were to withdraw, and the Lebanese army was expected to take control. However, with renewed attacks, the stability of this agreement is now uncertain.