While the U.S.-mediated framework agreement was in effect, Israeli forces carried out airstrikes and artillery fire around Deir Mimas and Markaba in southern Lebanon. Two new earth barriers were also built in the area.
Lebanon's official National News Agency reported that Israeli warplanes struck the bed of the Litani River, which runs beneath the Deir Mar Mimas Monastery, in the town of Deir Mimas at around 4 a.m. local time.
Markaba, in the Marjayoun district, was also targeted by artillery fire. Israeli military vehicles were seen moving in the area.
Earth barriers built closer to residential areas
Israeli forces were reported to be deployed in Kafr Kila and Tall al-Nahas, while an earth barrier was built along the route extending from the Deir Mimas-Burj al-Muluk-Kafr Kila junction toward Tall al-Nahas. The barrier, located about 150 meters from residential homes in Burj al-Muluk, was built close to homes in the area.
The second barrier was built at the Deir Mimas-Burj al-Muluk-Hura junction, toward the Hura area.
Tensions persist along the Lebanon-Israel line after ceasefire
The latest developments came as tensions between Lebanon and Israel persisted after a new period of conflict began on March 2. Israel has maintained that it is targeting Hezbollah in its attacks on Lebanon since March 2, while Hezbollah has also carried out attacks against Israel.
The new period of conflict effectively ended the ceasefire that had been in effect since November 2024. Following U.S.-led diplomatic efforts, Israel and Lebanon signed a framework agreement in June.
Under the agreement, Israel is expected to gradually withdraw from the occupied Lebanese territories in exchange for the deployment of the Lebanese army in the area and the disarmament of armed groups.
