Lebanon experienced one of the most intense attacks of the ongoing conflict when Israel launched a significant military operation shortly after the announcement of a two-week ceasefire between the United States and Iran. In a swift action, Israeli forces targeted over 100 sites across Beirut, the Bekaa Valley, and southern Lebanon within a mere ten minutes. The sudden violence came as a shock to many residents, as they had hoped for a period of calm following the ceasefire declaration.

Throughout the day, explosions echoed through the capital, shaking buildings and alarming inhabitants. The Lebanese health ministry reported at least 112 fatalities and over 837 injuries, marking this day as one of the deadliest since the conflict’s escalation began. Emergency services faced considerable challenges in responding to the urgent needs of affected areas, allowing widespread chaos to ensue.

Discrepancies Over Ceasefire Terms

The issue of whether Lebanon was included in the ceasefire agreement has sparked controversy. Iranian officials have asserted that Lebanon was meant to be part of the ceasefire, as stipulated in their proposed ten-point framework. This framework called for a halt to hostilities across all fronts connected to the conflict, including Israeli actions in Lebanon.

In response to ongoing attacks, Iranian authorities took action by reportedly closing the Strait of Hormuz, citing ceasefire violations due to Israel’s strikes on Hezbollah positions. This decision highlights the divide between Iranian and US perspectives on the ceasefire, with Iran considering Lebanon covered under the terms while the US and Israel explicitly excluded it.

Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif commented on this controversy, expressing that the ceasefire covers the entire region. On social media, he emphasised the need for an immediate cessation of hostilities including in Lebanon, a sentiment echoed by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Arghchi. He stressed the clarity of the ceasefire terms and underscored the responsibility of the United States to choose between continuing the conflict or upholding the ceasefire.

Israel and US Maintain Their Stance

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu firmly stated that operations against Hezbollah would persist, even with the announcement of a ceasefire between the US and Iran. He reiterated that Israel’s military would continue targeting Hezbollah, indicating that the ceasefire does not extend to the group. Following Netanyahu’s remarks, the Israeli military confirmed its intention to strike Hezbollah positions, which they claim operate from civilian areas.

In light of the ongoing violence, US President Donald Trump clarified that Lebanon is not included in the ceasefire agreement due to Hezbollah’s involvement. The White House has reiterated that the agreement pertains only to US-Iran relations, maintaining that all parties involved have been informed of this status. Reports indicate that this view is a point of contention, as many Lebanese citizens were left in disbelief following the escalatory violence.

Israel has accused Hezbollah of using civilian infrastructure for military purposes, but local officials and residents have contested these assertions, particularly in areas where civilian structures were targeted. The situation raises serious concerns over civilian safety and the continuing cycle of violence, with Hezbollah condemning Israel’s actions as serious violations of the supposed ceasefire.

Human Impact of the Conflict

As the conflict continues, the toll has been devastating. More than 1,500 individuals have reportedly lost their lives in Lebanon since the escalation began, and over a million people have been displaced from their homes. Families who were hopeful of returning to normalcy after the ceasefire announcement now find themselves grappling with renewed violence and uncertainty, further compounding the humanitarian crisis in the region.

The situation in Lebanon remains volatile, as residents and officials now face ongoing threats to their safety. The humanitarian challenges being faced as a result of the conflict continue to mount, leading to urgent calls for international attention and assistance amidst this unfolding crisis.

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