What’s behind Israel’s escalation on south Lebanon?
Al Jazeera
A notable increase in attacks may signify that Israel is stepping up a campaign to clear the south.
Beirut, Lebanon – Israel’s attacks on southern Lebanon have intensified in recent days, reaching a new peak on Wednesday, a day that saw both sides inflict casualties.
On Wednesday morning, an Israeli soldier was killed and eight wounded in a Hezbollah rocket attack on a base in Safad.
Israel responded with a round of attacks on villages across southern Lebanon, including Iqlim al-Tuffah, Aadchit, Jibchit and Labbouneh.
At least four deaths, including a mother and her two children, and multiple injuries were reported as photos and videos of smoke billowing from destroyed buildings emerged on Hezbollah-linked Telegram groups. A Hezbollah fighter was also reportedly killed.
The attacks are not new, but the intensification follows attempts by international diplomats to bring an end to the conflict across the Lebanese-Israeli border.
