Ankara: The Israeli army persisted in its offensive across southern Lebanon on Thursday, drawing criticism from Lebanese President Joseph Aoun who, during his visit to Paris, expressed concerns that these ongoing assaults and the occupation of parts of Lebanon are hindering the complete implementation of the 'framework formula.'
According to Anadolu Agency, the Israeli offensive included a series of airstrikes, artillery shelling, and other military actions in the districts of Tyre, Nabatieh, Marjayoun, and Bint Jbeil. Israeli drones were also reported over Beirut, its southern suburbs, and the Hermel district. In Tyre, airstrikes targeted the town of Al-Mansouri, affecting residential zones and infrastructure, causing tremors felt in neighboring villages. Artillery shelling was reported in and around Al-Mansouri and Wadi al-Aziyeh.
Further military actions included overnight strikes on Al-Mansouri, Majdal Zoun, and nearby valleys, followed by additional strikes and the bulldozing of homes in Al-Mansouri. In Nabatieh, an Israeli drone deployed a stun grenade near Zawtar al-Gharbiyeh, and homes in Zawtar al-Sharqiyeh were set ablaze. Intermittent shelling targeted areas between Ali al-Taher Heights and Al-Dabsha Hill, and explosions were reported in Yahmar al-Shaqif.
In Bint Jbeil, shelling took place in Hadatha, and a large explosion was reported in Aita al-Shaab. In Marjayoun, machine-gun fire was directed toward Wadi al-Hujair near Qabrikha. Low-flying drones continued to patrol over Beirut and Hermel.
These attacks coincided with President Aoun's participation in a Paris meeting aimed at supporting the Lebanese army and internal security. Aoun emphasized that the 'framework formula' with Israel is crucial for ending hostilities and fostering stability. He reiterated Lebanon's commitment to the agreement, while highlighting that sustained Israeli aggression and occupation impede the consolidation of peace.
On June 26, Lebanon and Israel signed a U.S.-sponsored framework agreement, outlining an Israeli withdrawal from Lebanese territories and the deployment of the Lebanese army in vacated zones. Aoun underscored the importance of Israel's withdrawal from occupied areas and the deployment of Lebanese forces to the international border.
Despite the agreement, Israeli raids on southern Lebanon persist, with some areas under occupation for decades. Lebanon's Health Ministry reports that between March 2 and September 17, Israeli attacks resulted in 4,386 deaths and 12,407 injuries. Since October 8, the toll has risen to 8,953 killed and 30,643 injured.