In a major escalation of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Israeli troops have entered several hundred metres into Lebanon, near the village of Meiss El Jabal. This entrance breaches a shaky ceasefire agreement between both countries.
The report came from Israeli Army Radio, but the Israeli military has not released a formal statement.
Since November, a fragile truce has been in place between Israel and Hezbollah. It followed intense cross-border attacks that peaked last September.
Lebanese authorities say Israel has violated the ceasefire thousands of times. These include airstrikes and gunfire that have killed and injured civilians.
Israel agreed to pull its troops from southern Lebanon by January 26. The deadline was moved to February 18 when Israel delayed its withdrawal.
Despite the extension, five Israeli military outposts still remain on Lebanese land. Daily Israeli airstrikes also continue to hit targets in Lebanon.
This growing tension is putting more pressure on the already weak truce.
Israel Threatens West Bank Annexation Amid Statehood Talks
Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar has warned of new steps if countries recognise Palestine. He said Israel may annex parts of the West Bank and Jordan Valley.
“Any unilateral action against Israel will be met with a unilateral Israeli response,” he warned.
According to reports, his comment is aimed at nations like the UK and France. These countries are considering supporting an independent Palestinian state.
French President Emmanuel Macron is reportedly planning a summit in New York by mid-June. He hopes to rally support for Palestine, with Saudi Arabia backing the effort.
International Recognition of Palestine Sparks Tension
June 18 is the proposed date when several countries might officially recognise Palestine. Israeli officials are furious. They accuse Macron of “deception” for moving forward after assuring them otherwise.
Currently, 149 out of 193 UN member states recognise Palestine as an independent state.
In July 2024, the International Court of Justice ruled that Israel’s presence in the occupied Palestinian territories is illegal. The ruling called for Israeli settlements to be removed and supported Palestinian claims to self-determination.
Tensions remain high across the region, as diplomacy and military activity continue to collide.
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