Child Among 7 Killed in Israeli Airstrikes on Southern Lebanon: Reports

Israeli airstrikes across southern Lebanon on Friday resulted in the deaths of at least six fighters, including five Hezbollah members, and a child, as per reports. In response, Hezbollah launched artillery and rocket attacks across the border.

The ongoing exchange of fire between the Israeli military and Hezbollah, backed by Iran, has intensified along Lebanon’s southern border amidst the broader Gaza conflict, raising concerns of a potential regional escalation.

Among the fatalities were four Hezbollah fighters killed in strikes on the towns of Mays al-Jabal and Tayr Harfa, according to Hezbollah’s death notices and security sources. Another fighter died in a separate attack near Aitarun, though it was unclear if this individual was affiliated with Hezbollah.

A separate airstrike on Aita, a village 14 km from the Israeli border, claimed the lives of another Hezbollah fighter, identified as Mohammad Najem and a child. The Israeli military confirmed targeting Najem, stating he was involved in Hezbollah’s rocket and missile operations. Additionally, Israel reported targeting two other Hezbollah members in the south.

The Israeli military acknowledged that projectiles were fired from Lebanese territory into northern Israel, though no injuries were reported. Meanwhile, Hezbollah’s press office confirmed ongoing rocket and artillery attacks on various Israeli military positions throughout the day.

Since the onset of clashes last October, over 600 people in Lebanon have died, including more than 400 Hezbollah fighters and over 130 civilians, as per Reuters.