Hezbollah attacks several Israeli towns
Hezbollah announced in a series of statements two rocket attacks on the Israeli town of Nahariya. It also fired rockets at Shlomi and Kabri, according to the state-run National News Agency (NNA).
The towns of Shlomi and Nahariya were also attacked using drones, the militia party stated. Hezbollah also targeted Israeli army infrastructure in the town of Ma'alot-Tarshiha with a rocket barrage.
Iran 'did not seek war,' asserts Iranian supreme leader
Iranian Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei stated Thursday, in a written message, that Iran does not want war against Israel and the United States, but that the country will defend its rights, state television reported.
“We did not seek war and we do not want it,” he affirmed in the message, read on television 40 days after the assassination of his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, on the first day of the conflict, Feb. 28.
“But we will under no circumstances renounce our legitimate rights, and in this regard, we consider the entire resistance front as a single entity,” he added, clearly referring to the war in Lebanon, where Israel is at war with Hezbollah, an ally of Tehran.
Syria condemns Israeli strikes in Lebanon
Syrian Foreign Minister Assad al-Sheibani condemned the deadly Israeli strikes against Lebanon on Thursday, calling on the international community to support Beirut in its efforts to secure a cease-fire.
"We condemn all the bombings currently being carried out in Lebanon by the Israeli entity," Shaibani said from Ankara, in the presence of his Turkish counterpart, Hakan Fidan.
He also called on the international community to "support Lebanon during this critical period and to avert the specter of war," while expressing his country's support for Beirut's efforts to disarm Hezbollah.
WHO calls on Israel to reverse evacuation order for Jnah in Beirut
Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), urged Israel to reverse its evacuation order for the Jnah district of Beirut, noting that the area "includes two major referral hospitals: Rafik Hariri University Hospital and al-Zahraa Hospital."
"No alternative medical facilities are available to accommodate approximately 450 patients from the two hospitals [including 40 in intensive care], making their evacuation operationally impossible," he stated, adding that both facilities are operating at full capacity, including treating those injured in the April 8 airstrikes.
"This area also encompasses the Lebanese Public Health Ministry complex and houses five shelters accommodating more than 5,000 people," he added. “I urge Israel to reverse this order and guarantee the protection of all health infrastructure, medical personnel, patients, and civilians.”
⚡ Talks between Lebanon, Israel to take place in Washington
Talks between Israel and Lebanon are scheduled for next week at the State Department in Washington, AFP learned Thursday from a source close to the matter who spoke on condition of anonymity.
"We can confirm that the Department will host a meeting next week to discuss ongoing cease-fire negotiations with Israel and Lebanon," a State Department official said.
The Israeli prime minister announced Thursday that he had ordered his cabinet to begin "direct negotiations" with Lebanon, the day after deadly strikes on the neighboring country threatened, according to the international community, the truce agreed between the United States and Iran.
Series of Israeli strikes in south Lebanon
The Israeli army continued its strikes in southern Lebanon in the evening, according to the state-run National News Agency (NNA).
Fighter jets targeted Kfar Dounin (Nabatieh) and a house in Ansarieh (Saida). The Israeli Air Force also flew low-altitude over villages in the Zahrani region, the NNA reported.
The town of Khiam (Marjayoun) was hit by artillery and automatic weapons fire.
Strikes targeted the souk in Bint Jbeil, as well as the town of Kafra (Bint Jbeil) and the Haret al-Baidar al Foukani area in Harouf (Nabatieh).
Two strikes on Qleileh and Shehabieh (Sour) resulted in injuries, according to the NNA. Ambulances were dispatched to the scene.
Situation in south Lebanon, according to our correspondent:
Two Israeli airstrikes targeted the town of Qleileh, south of Sour, reports our correspondent. One strike targeted a juice factory in the Deir Takla area, near the town of Ansarieh, south of Saida.
Drone strikes targeted the towns of Haniyeh and Batoulieh (Sour).
Israeli fighter jets fired on the outskirts of Choukine and Mayfadoun (Nabatieh). The outskirts of Adloun, south of Saida, were also targeted, but no casualties were reported.
Three people were wounded in a house strike between Qleileh and Haniyeh (Sour), while artillery fire targeted Bint Jbeil.
Rajji receives support from Kuwaiti counterpart
Lebanese Foreign Minister Joe Rajji received a phone call from his Kuwaiti counterpart, Jarrah Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah. Al-Sabah reaffirmed his country's full solidarity with Lebanon and its people in the face of Israeli aggression.
He condemned the attacks against innocent civilians and expressed Kuwait's willingness to provide all necessary support and assistance to Lebanon, according to the state-run National News Agency (NNA).
Rajji also expressed "his deep gratitude to Kuwait for its unwavering support to Lebanon during the difficult times it has faced." During the call, the two ministers discussed recent regional developments, including the future of the ceasefire agreement between the United States and Iran and its potential repercussions for the region.
Qatar Emir, Pakistani prime minister discuss situation in Lebanon
The Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, discussed the situation in Lebanon during a telephone conversation with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The two leaders also reviewed the regional situation, including the cease-fire agreement between the United States and Iran.
"Both sides discussed the attacks against Lebanon and their impact on regional security and stability. They condemned the series of Israeli airstrikes that targeted large areas of Lebanon, emphasizing the need to support peace efforts and resolve conflicts through dialogue and diplomacy," a statement said.
Shehbaz Sharif also briefed the Emir of Qatar "on the details of the [cease-fire] agreement and the efforts undertaken by his country to achieve it. The Emir of Qatar expressed his support for the Pakistani prime minister's efforts in this regard," the statement continued. The Pakistani prime minister praised "the wisdom of the Emir of Qatar in handling the crisis and commended his support for promoting security and stability in the region."
Israel claims it 'began attacking Hezbollah firing sites in Lebanon'
Israel claims on its X account that it "recently began attacking Hezbollah firing sites in Lebanon."
Lebanon: French bishops call for gathering, prayer on Saturday
The French Bishops' Conference (CEF) is calling on Catholics in the country to gather and pray for peace in Lebanon on Saturday at 6 p.m., according to a statement released Thursday.
On Wednesday, "massive Israeli strikes hit several neighborhoods in the heart of Beirut, as well as the southern suburbs of the capital, southern Lebanon, and the Bekaa Valley, without warning, leaving more than 300 dead and hundreds wounded, adding to the 1,500 victims and 1.2 million displaced persons since the beginning of this conflict between Hezbollah and Israel," wrote Bishop Jean-Marc Aveline, president of the French Bishops' Conference, in the preamble.
Turkish President Erdogan told his Iranian counterpart that negotiations must lead to a 'lasting peace'
Talks in Pakistan between Iran and the United States must be used to achieve lasting peace, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan told his Iranian counterpart Masoud Pezeshkian during a phone call Thursday, according to his office.
"The upcoming negotiations in the coming days must be used to the fullest extent to achieve lasting peace and stability," Erdogan said, according to his office.
Iran war: Trump says 'very optimistic' ahead of talks in Pakistan
Donald Trump said Thursday he was "very optimistic" about the possibility of reaching a peace agreement with Iran before key talks in Pakistan this weekend, despite the fragile truce that prevails.
"They speak very differently in meetings than they do to the press. They are much more reasonable," the U.S. president said in a telephone interview with NBC News, referring to Iranian officials. "They are accepting everything they have to accept. Don't forget, they have been defeated," he added.
Netanyahu reportedly decided to open direct negotiations with Lebanon at Trump's request
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's decision to engage in direct negotiations with Lebanon was made at the request of U.S. President Donald Trump, according to a U.S. official and a source close to the matter, CNN reports.
Israel's main front is currently in Lebanon, says Zamir
Israeli army chief of staff Eyal Zamir stated that the army's main theater of operations is in Lebanon, during a situation assessment near the village of Bint Jbeil in southern Lebanon.
"The Israeli army is at war and continues to fight Hezbollah with significant force," he affirmed. He also indicated that the army is prepared to resume intensive operations against Iran if necessary.
Iran's supreme leader says management of Strait of Hormuz enters new phase
Iran will enter a "new phase" in the management of the strategic Strait of Hormuz, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei said Thursday in a statement broadcast on state television.
"Iran is not seeking war but will not relinquish its rights and considers all resistance fronts as a unified entity," Khamenei added.
Israel warns Hezbollah could extend its attacks against country in 'next few hours'
Hezbollah MP reaffirms his group's rejection of direct talks between Lebanon and Israel
A Hezbollah MP reaffirmed on Thursday his group's rejection of any direct negotiations between Lebanon and Israel, after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced his intention to begin direct talks with Beirut.
"We reiterate our rejection of any direct negotiations between Lebanon and the Israeli enemy, as well as the need to adhere to national principles, foremost among which are Israeli withdrawal, a cessation of hostilities, and the return of residents to their villages and towns," said Fayad.
Hezbollah calls on the Lebanese government to establish a cease-fire "as a precondition before undertaking any other steps," Fayad added.
More than 15,000 displaced people registered in Akkar
More than 15,000 displaced people have registered with the Akkar disaster management unit in northern Lebanon, reports our correspondent. The majority are housed in homes located in more than 100 localities across the region, while the remainder are in the 22 reception centers set up by the authorities, including fully occupied schools and technical institutions.
According to the disaster management unit, headed by the governor of Akkar, Imad Labaki, 4,005 families have arrived in the region and registered to date, representing a total of 15,143 displaced persons, distributed as follows: 3,640 families (13,807 people) outside of state-provided shelters, and 365 families (1,336 people) housed in schools prepared by the authorities.
Lebanon: Death toll from Wednesday's Israeli strikes rises to 303
The Lebanese Health Ministry reported that the waves of Israeli airstrikes carried out across the country the previous day killed more than 300 people and wounded at least 1,150 others, bringing the death toll from the Israeli campaign since March 2 to 1,888.
"Yesterday's Israeli airstrikes resulted in a preliminary toll of 303 martyrs and 1,150 wounded," the ministry said in a statement, adding that the cumulative death toll since the start of the war between Israel and Hezbollah stands at 1,888, with 6,092 wounded.
The search for bodies "under the rubble continues in several locations, in addition to the identification of numerous martyrs," it added.
Non-Iranian oil tanker crosses the Strait of Hormuz, first since cease-fire, reports MarineTraffic
The Gabonese-flagged oil tanker "MSG" became the first non-Iranian vessel to cross the Strait of Hormuz and leave the Gulf on Thursday since the fragile truce between the United States and Iran came into effect, according to maritime tracking data from the MarineTraffic website.
The ship, carrying 6,941 tons of fuel oil (44,000 barrels) loaded on Feb. 28 in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates, is bound for Aegis Pipavav, India. Since the cease-fire came into effect Tuesday night, two other Iranian oil tankers and six bulk carriers have crossed the strait.
Israeli airstrikes in Saksakieh and near Marjayoun
Israeli warplanes struck a two-story house in Saksakieh, south of Saida. The attack destroyed the interior of the building and caused a fire in a nearby sawmill, but no casualties were reported. Israeli artillery fire targeted the Bayyada area near Marjayoun, which remains inhabited despite numerous Israeli calls to evacuate.
Israeli strikes: Rassamny claims to have received guarantees for the airport and the road leading to it
Public Works and Transport Minister Fayez Rassamny stated on Thursday that he had received "guarantees from foreign diplomats and relevant authorities that the road leading to Rafik Hariri International Airport in Beirut, as well as the airport grounds, will remain outside any target zone in the context of the current conflict, as long as their use remains limited to the transport of passengers and goods and civilian activities."
Sirens sound in northern Israel
Alarm sirens sounded near Nahariya in northern Israel, a few kilometers from the border with southern Lebanon, according to the Times of Israel, shortly after the Israeli prime minister's announcement regarding negotiations with Lebanon.
Netanyahu wants to engage in 'direct negotiations' with Lebanon: Axios
According to Axios journalist Barak Ravid, Benjamin Netanyahu’s statement follows phone calls he had yesterday with President Trump and White House envoy Steve Witkoff.
Senior U.S. officials indicated that Witkoff asked Netanyahu to “calm” the strikes in Lebanon and open negotiations.
Earlier, NBC News reported that President Donald Trump, during a phone call Wednesday, asked Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to reduce Israeli strikes in Lebanon to facilitate the success of negotiations with Iran.
“There is no ceas-efire. Negotiations will begin in the coming days,” an Israeli official told Axios.
A well-informed source told Ravid that the person expected to lead the negotiations on the Israeli side would be former minister Ron Dermer.
Ron Dermer, the Israeli shadow strategist recalled to handle the Lebanon file
A discreet channel between Tel Aviv and Washington, this diplomat and former Israeli minister has already led key issues, including negotiations with Syria.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appointed Ron Dermer, former Israeli minister of strategic affairs, to handle the Lebanese dossier.
Known as the voice in Benjamin Netanyahu’s ear, “Bibi’s brain,” and the “strategic translator” between Tel Aviv and Washington, Dermer was appointed a day after Lebanon proposed direct negotiations with Israel.
🔗Read more here.
Netanyahu says he has ordered his cabinet to begin 'direct negotiations' with Lebanon
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Thursday that he had instructed Israel to begin peace talks with Lebanon, which would also include the disarmament of Hezbollah.
“In light of Lebanon’s repeated requests to open direct negotiations with Israel, I instructed the cabinet yesterday to begin these direct negotiations with Lebanon as soon as possible,” Netanyahu said in a statement. “The negotiations will focus on the disarmament of Hezbollah and the establishment of peaceful relations between Israel and Lebanon.”
Trump reportedly asked Israel to reduce its strikes in Lebanon to preserve negotiations with Iran.
According to NBC News, a senior U.S. administration official said that President Donald Trump asked Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in a phone call Wednesday to reduce Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon to help the success of negotiations with Iran.
While both the Trump administration and Israel have stated that Lebanon is not covered by the cease-fire, Israel agreed "to be a useful partner," the official said, according to NBC.
Turkey wants the truce between Tehran and Washington to include Lebanon
At a press conference, the Turkish foreign minister stated that Turkey "wants the cease-fire" between the United States and Iran "to be sustainable on the ground and to also include Lebanon." He was speaking at a joint press conference with his Syrian counterpart, Foreign Minister Assad al-Sheibani, broadcast by Turkish media outlets, including the news channel Ülke TV.
Hassan Fadlallah accuses authorities in Beirut of abandoning South
Hassan Fadlallah, the Hezbollah member of parliament elected in the Bint Jbeil district, declared that the fate of the inhabitants of southern Lebanon "remains in good hands," referring to those of the Shiite movement, asserting that its "weapons will remain directed against the enemy in order to prevent the occupation of the South and to protect Beirut."
He indicated that the city of Bint Jbeil, the district capital, is currently "resisting" the Israeli army, while Hezbollah had previously reported that close-quarters fighting was taking place on the outskirts of the city.
He also criticized "the authorities in Beirut" for having "abandoned the South" and accused Israel. According to him, only Israel and the actors who incite discord in Lebanon represent major threats to the security of Beirut, while the head of the Lebanese Forces called in the afternoon for the withdrawal of all weapons from the capital, in accordance with the decision of the Cabinet to restore the state's monopoly on the use of force.
Katz: Hezbollah is 'disoriented' by Wednesday’s strikes and 'seeks a cease-fire'
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz stated during an assessment of the situation on the front with Lebanon that Hezbollah is “disoriented” by the massive strikes of the previous day and is “seeking a cease-fire.”
According to reports in Israeli media, Katz stated that Hezbollah “is under intense pressure following Operation ‘Eternal Darkness,’” a series of massive strikes on numerous areas of Lebanon, carried out simultaneously on Wednesday afternoon. These bombings killed at least two senior party commanders, including a personal secretary to its leader, Naim Qassem, and killed more than 200 people, including many families and children, according to the Health Ministry.
According to Katz, “more than 200 fighters have been eliminated in the last 24 hours,” which has “shocked and disoriented” Hezbollah. Faced with this situation, the party is “seeking a cease-fire.”
He further explained that the Israeli army’s fighting in Lebanon is structured around four axes: reinforcing the border strip, “expanding zones of control” within the country, consolidating zones of control in areas where fighting is taking place south of the Litani River, and controlling this region “to prevent infiltrations” into northern Israel. This is all done with a clear objective, reiterated in every statement by Israeli officials: to ensure the “complete security of the inhabitants of the North” of the country.
Russia believes the cease-fire agreement should cover Lebanon
Russia believes the cease-fire agreement between Washington and Tehran "extends" to Lebanon, the Foreign Ministry said Thursday, reporting on a phone call between Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and his Iranian counterpart, Abbas Araghchi.
"Moscow assumes that these agreements ... have a regional dimension and extend in particular to Lebanon," the Russian Foreign Ministry said in a statement.
For her part, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova condemned the Israeli offensive in Lebanon, saying it "threatens to derail the negotiation process that was beginning to take shape."
'The only solution is a cease-fire,' Aoun says, adding that he is conducting intensive contacts
President Joseph Aoun stated on Thursday, while receiving a delegation, that “the only solution to the situation Lebanon is facing is a cease-fire between Israel and Lebanon, followed by direct negotiations.”
He added, “I have conducted, and continue to conduct, intensive international contacts; this proposal is being widely welcomed and is beginning to be viewed positively in international political forums.”
The head of state emphasized national unity. “I will not allow internal discord to erupt. Everyone must believe in the state and its legitimate forces, because there is no salvation without them,” he said. “The security forces and the army are fully carrying out their mission to impose security and stability, despite the difficult conditions and limited resources.”
Finally, he called on citizens to be "partners in maintaining security and stability and to collaborate closely with security forces and municipalities."
Moscow condemns Israeli strikes in Lebanon and warns of a potential humanitarian catastrophe
The Russian Foreign Ministry stated in a press release published on its Facebook page that yesterday's Israeli attacks, "which inflict suffering on civilians and destroy essential infrastructure, deserve the strongest condemnation."
"Actions of this nature bring Lebanon closer to the brink of a humanitarian catastrophe, further exacerbating already fragile social and economic conditions for the population," the Ministry added. "We sincerely hope that dialogue and the principles of humanity will prevail over the logic of war and the tragedy of destruction."
Fighting continues between Hezbollah and the Israeli army in Bint Jbeil
The Israeli army, attempting to advance into the town of Bint Jbeil, has faced attacks from Hezbollah using rockets and artillery fire, according to our correspondent in southern Lebanon.
Hezbollah fighters are also bombarding Israeli soldiers at the town's entrances with rockets and artillery shells.
New Israeli strikes on south Lebanon, more casualties
- An Israeli airstrike destroyed the building housing Bank Audi in the main souk of Bint Jbeil, reports our correspondent.
- Strikes targeted Haris (Nabatieh), Bazouriyeh and Choukine (Sour), as well as Tibnin (Bint Jbeil) and Jibsheet (Nabatieh). The strike in Bazourieh wounded three people. Another strike targeted Jabal al-Ahmar, in the town of Harouf (Nabatieh).
- The Al Rissala Scouts, affiliated with the Amal movement, announced the deaths of several of their members in a strike Wednesday on Abbassieh. They were rescuers Hussein Moussa Chaalan and Hawraa Ali Hariri, as well as Mariam Hassan Chaalan and Leila Amine Nasrallah.
Two bodies were recovered from the rubble in Burj Qalaway, where the Islamic Health Committee, Hezbollah's rescue organization, continues its efforts. Our correspondent also reports that four rescuers were killed in an airstrike shortly before on an Islamic Health Committee center in the same town.
Three people were wounded and two killed in Bazourieh after a drone strike hit a car.
Samir Geagea calls on authorities to remove all weapons from the capital
In a statement published on his party's website, the head of the Lebanese Forces, Samir Geagea, deemed it necessary to remove all weapons from Beirut in order to protect the capital against future Israeli bombings.
"The decision taken today by the Lebanese government, which calls on the Lebanese Army and relevant security forces to seriously and effectively exercise state authority in Beirut, to collect all illegal and unauthorized weapons, and not to leave things to chance, in order to protect Beirut and its inhabitants and prevent a repeat of what happened yesterday, is a decision that gets to the heart of the problem," Geagea wrote.
"It is true that this measure by the government is only a first step, but it is a very significant step that enjoys the support of the majority of Lebanese." "The army and the relevant security forces can no longer invoke the absence of a political decision to justify the non-effective exercise of state authority, even if this initially only concerns the governance of Beirut," he added, calling on the country's armed forces to implement this decision without delay.
Some Lebanese hospitals could run out of vital medical supplies in the coming days, according to the WHO
Some hospitals in Lebanon could run out of essential trauma medical kits in the coming days as stocks dwindle following the numerous casualties caused by large-scale Israeli airstrikes over the past 24 hours, the World Health Organization (WHO) told Reuters.
"Some of the stocks of trauma care supplies were already limited, and we could run out within days," said Abdinasir Abubakar, WHO representative in Lebanon. These vital trauma kits include bandages, antibiotics, and anesthetics to treat patients with war-related injuries, he explained.
Hezbollah says targeted excavator in Taybe, launched new attacks on northern Israel
The party announced it had targeted an Israeli military excavator, a D9 model, with a kamikaze drone in Taybe, in southern Lebanon (eastern sector).
Hezbollah also said it launched a salvo of rockets at the Israeli town of Manara for the second time today, followed by another salvo at the Al-Assi site, opposite the Lebanese town of Mais al-Jabal (Marjayoun).
Israeli threats targeting southern Beirut: Map published by Adraee sparks panic
Following Israeli threats targeting the southern suburbs of Beirut and Jnah, a much larger list of neighborhoods than the one published by Arabic-language spokesperson Avichay Adraee circulated on social media in Lebanon, causing panic and residents to flee to other areas.
The neighborhoods that Israel specifically ordered residents to evacuate are Haret Hreik, Ghobeiri, Laylaki, Chiyah, Tahwitat al-Ghadir, Burj al-Barajneh, Hadath, and Jnah.
However, the panic was triggered by the map published by Adraee, which included a warning that appeared to encompass several areas adjacent to the neighborhoods mentioned. This map was published, without any mention of areas outside the eight named, the day after Israeli accusations that Hezbollah had begun establishing bases outside the southern suburbs and after strikes on neighborhoods within Beirut itself, which are not, however, included on the map published on Thursday.
On March 5, during his initial call to evacuate seven neighborhoods in the southern suburbs, the spokesman had also published a map showing a larger area.
Houthis say they will intensify their attacks against Israel
Yemen's Houthi leader has stated that his group plans to intensify its military operations against Israel, following recent attacks by the movement on Israeli territory, Reuters reports.
Abdul-Malek al-Houthi specified that the group's future actions could include what he described as "surprise actions," adding that these measures are part of a planned strategy, taking into account developments on the ground.
'Lebanon must be freed from the grip of the Iranian regime': Saar
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar wrote on X that “Lebanon must be freed from the grip of the Iranian regime, [which must not] tighten any further!” He conveyed this message to his Cypriot counterpart during a telephone conversation.
He also criticized Beirut for not implementing its decision to expel the Iranian ambassador to Beirut, Mohammad Reza Shibani, who had been declared persona non grata.
South Lebanon: Israel targets ambulance, rescue center; at least 3 killrf in Habboush and Qalawieh; drone strike targeted Nabatieh
Five missiles were fired from a drone at Toul (Nabatieh). When rescue teams arrived at the scene, another drone fired at them. No injuries were reported, but an ambulance belonging to the Islamic Mission Scouts Association (al-Rissala, affiliated with the Amal Movement) was damaged.
An Israeli drone strike targeted Habboush, in the same region, killing one person and wounding three.
Two strikes targeted a rescue center run by the Islamic Health Committee (affiliated with Hezbollah) in Burj Qalawieh, near a UNIFIL position on the village's main road. The second attack killed at least two people.
While we reported yesterday that civilians attempting to return to Mansouri (Sour) after the announcement of the regional cease-fire were trapped there by airstrikes, a member of the village's municipal council called on the authorities to allow the Lebanese Red Cross to enter and rescue them.
In the Bint Jbeil district, an airstrike targeted Tibnin, and an artillery bombardment struck Braasheet.
Invasion of south Lebanon: Hezbollah reports 'direct clashes' with Israeli soldiers in the center of Bint Jbeil
Hezbollah reported "direct clashes" with Israeli soldiers attempting to advance on the souk of Bint Jbeil, a town in the central sector of the border strip, which the Israelis have been trying to encircle for several days. "Israeli military positions" around the town are being attacked with rocket and artillery fire alongside the fighting.
During the 2006 war, Hezbollah repelled the Israelis from this town after a fierce battle. Located five kilometers from the border with Israel, this locality also holds symbolic importance for Hezbollah, an ally of Tehran, for having hosted in 2000 a speech by its former leader, Hassan Nasrallah, celebrating the Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon after two decades of occupation.
Hezbollah strikes northern Israel: At least 14 rockets fired since midnight
Hezbollah reported carrying out further rocket attacks on Avivim, Kiryat Shmona (which was targeted repeatedly throughout the day), and Yesod HaMa'ala. Suicide drones were launched toward Misgav Am.
At least 14 rocket alerts have sounded since midnight in northern Israel, according to AFP.
Late this morning, intercepted projectiles and long trails of smoke were visible in the sky, very close to the border, according to AFP images.
French Foreign Ministry: Agreement between EU and Israel could be renegotiated in light of Israel’s ‘disproportionate’ strikes on Lebanon
The French Foreign Ministry has said that the agreement between the EU and Israel could be renegotiated in light of Israel’s "disproportionate" strikes on Lebanon.
A request to review this partnership agreement had already been made the previous day by Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez.
Prime Minister Nawaf Salam asks Pakistani counterpart to confirm cease-fire does indeed include Lebanon
Prime Minister Salam spoke by phone with his Pakistani counterpart, asking him to confirm that the cease-fire must include Lebanon, in order to prevent a repeat of the Israeli attacks seen on Wednesday, according to a statement released by the state-run National News Agency (NNA).
For his part, Shehbaz Sharif condemned the recent Israeli attacks on Lebanon and affirmed that his country is working to ensure peace and stability in the country.
Hezbollah fires 30 rockets into northern Israel since midnight, according to Israeli army
The Israeli army claims that Hezbollah has fired 30 rockets into Israel since midnight, according to Haaretz.
The Qasmieh Bridge near Sour destroyed by an Israeli strike on Wednesday April 8
Credit: Kawnat Haju/AFP
A photo taken on April 9, 2026, shows the aftermath of the previous day's Israeli airstrike that targeted the Qasmieh Bridge, located on a main highway linking villages in the Sour district with others farther north.
Israeli army issues evacuation threat to residents of the southern suburbs, particularly in the following neighborhoods
🔸 Haret Hreik
🔸 Ghobeiry
🔸 Laylaki
🔸 Hadath
🔸 Burj al-Barajneh
🔸 Tahwitat al-Ghadir
🔸 Chiyah
🔸 Jnah
War on Lebanon 2026: Stories of lives stolen
Find here our special series covering the names and stories of victims of Israel's war on Lebanon.
Georges and Elie: Father and son shot dead by Israelis in Bint Jbeil
Fadel Ayoub, 36: The corporal Israel killed in Kfar Tibnit
The Moussa brothers, dismissed by Tibnin hospital and killed by Israel
Sarah, 27, the 8-months-pregnant English teacher killed by Israel in Bezalieh
FOCUS | Wartime price gouging under scrutiny as authorities step in
The economy ministry has referred a case to the financial prosecutor targeting importers, distributors, retailers, and generator operators accused of exploiting the war to raise prices, with more cases likely to follow.
Mounir Younes explains here.
Israeli official to Reuters: Israel does not regard Litani as new border with Lebanon
According to an Israeli military official speaking to Reuters on condition of anonymity, Israel does not intend to make the Litani River its new border with Lebanon, contrary to recent claims by Bezalel Smotrich, the far-right finance minister, and despite its plans to create a depopulated buffer zone in southern Lebanon.
According to this source, the Israeli army plans to occupy this "buffer zone" with ground troops and carry out strikes as necessary, without necessarily holding positions along the river.
Behind Israel's April 8 massacre on Lebanon: Names and faces of those killed
On the first day of the "cease-fire" between Iran and the United States, the Israeli army carried out “100 strikes in 10 minutes” on Lebanon. These strikes targeted densely populated neighborhoods across Beirut and other parts of the country with no prior "warning."
The death toll, which remains provisional and continues to rise as rescue teams work relentlessly to retrieve missing people trapped under the rubble of destroyed buildings, currently stands at 203 killed and more than 1,000 injured, according to Health Ministry figures. Civil Defense figures are higher.
We are compiling here the names and stories of the victims of Israel's massacre in Lebanon on April 8, 2026.
International Committee of the Red Cros and others work to fix the water pipeline damaged by an Israeli strike
Photo relayed by our correspondent in southern Lebanon, Muntasser Abdallah.
Following the Israeli airstrike, which damaged the 12-inch pipeline supplying the Marjayoun regional reservoir — which in turn supplies the towns of Dbayn, Blat, Marjayoun, and Al-Qalaa from the Marj al-Khoukh station, and the 6-inch pipeline supplying the town of Debbine, maintenance teams from the South Lebanon Water Establishment have implemented an initial bypass to reconnect the distribution networks and restore the water supply.
Today, maintenance teams and contractors, in cooperation with the International Committee of the Red Cross, began repairing the faults that occurred on the two main pumping lines and replacing the damaged pipes to restore the water supply as normal.
Iran will not abandon Lebanon, Pezeshkian insists
Iranian President Massoud Pezeshkian has stated that Israeli strikes on Lebanon constitute violations of the cease-fire agreement between Tehran and Washington, according to Reuters. He added that cease-fire negotiations with the United States would be “meaningless” as long as these attacks continue and that “Iran will not abandon the Lebanese people.”
Hezbollah claims responsibility for series of rocket attacks on military positions and villages in northern Israel
Hezbollah has announced a new series of rocket strikes against military positions and villages in northern Israel. It said it had targeted the al-Marj military site, Kiryat Shmona, and Metula, Avivim, a position north of Kfar Yuval, Shomera, Shlomi and, for the fifth time today, Kiryat Shmona.
According to Haaretz, air raid sirens sounded several times in the early afternoon due to “continuous rocket barrages” from Lebanon, as well as a “possible drone infiltration” between Kiryat Shmona and Metula.
Speaker of Iranian Parliament insists that Lebanon and Hezbollah are 'integral part of cease-fire'
The Speaker of the Iranian Parliament, Mohammad-Bagher Ghalibaf, stated in a message published in English on X that: “Lebanon and the entire Axis of Resistance, as allies of Iran, constitute an inseparable part of the cease-fire,” adding that this was the very first point of the truce agreement.
“Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has clearly and publicly highlighted the issue of Lebanon; there is no room for denial or backtracking,” he continued, before stating that: “Violations of the cease-fire entail explicit costs and STRONG responses. Cease fire immediately.”
Bahraini military claims to have intercepted six drones targeting the Kingdom
In a statement published on social media, the Bahraini military claimed to have intercepted at least six drones launched against its territory over the past 24 hours, bringing the total to 154 since the start of the conflict between Iran, the United States, and Israel. It has also counted a total of 194 missiles, but states that none have been fired in the last 24 hours.
Cabinet meeting: Army and security forces tasked with ‘maintaining monopoly on use of force’ in Beirut
Speaking after the Cabinet meeting, Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam announced that he had asked the army and security forces to step up their deployment in Beirut in order to “extend state control” in the capital and “ensure the state’s monopoly on weapons” there. He also stated that Lebanon would lodge an urgent complaint with the U.N. Security Council in response to the “dangerous Israeli escalation” of the previous day.
Information Minister and government spokesperson stated that the two Hezbollah ministers, Mohammad Haidar (Labor) and Rakan Nasreddine (Health), opposed this decision.
Additionally, according to a statement read out by Morcos, President Joseph Aoun stated during the Cabinet meeting on Thursday morning that “no one negotiates on Lebanon’s behalf.”
The minister added that the president “is pressing for Lebanon to be included in the cease-fire agreement."
“Prime Minister Nawaf Salam emphasized the issue of the cease-fire and the need to retain control over the negotiation initiative [direct talks with Israel],” added Morcos.
Air strikes on Beirut: Amid the rubble of a building in Ain al-Mreisseh, Civil Defence continues its search for 4 missing people, likely children
Rescue workers search for the remaining bodies trapped under the rubble of a building destroyed by Israel in Ain al-Mreisseh. (Credit: Mathieu Karam)
In Ain al-Mreisseh, where Civil Defense rescue workers are still busy at work, four people are reportedly still trapped under the rubble of a building destroyed on Wednesday by an Israeli airstrike, according to a volunteer. He believes they are children. After discovering a hand, he and his colleagues are already preparing body bags, reports our correspondent on the ground, Lyana Alameddine.
Earlier, a rescue team returned empty-handed after the collapse of a building adjacent to the one Israel bombed the previous day. Soldiers and internal security officers have been deployed to the scene to recover the personal belongings of the bodies already found in the rubble. A member of Hezbollah’s Islamic Health Committee is also present.
Aya, a resident of the building opposite, emerges with a suitcase. “I don’t know how we managed to get out of our homes,” says the 21-year-old woman. “The day before the strike, a drone was flying over the area at low altitude, as if it were looking for something.” She plans to go to relatives who live in Hamra. “But nowhere is safe anymore. Here, we thought we were safe,” she says.
Iran: Head of Atomic Energy Agency rules out curbing enrichment program
The head of the Iranian Atomic Energy Organization has ruled out any curtailment of Iran's uranium enrichment program — one of the key demands of the United States and Israel – in an interview with the ISNA news agency.
“The claims and demands of our enemies aimed at restricting Iran’s enrichment program are nothing but wishful thinking that will be buried,” said Mohammad Eslami, as talks are set to take place at the end of the week, mediated by Pakistan.
Strait of Hormuz: EU rejects idea of a ‘toll,' calls for respect for freedom of navigation
The European Union rejects any idea of a "toll" for passage through the Strait of Hormuz, where freedom of navigation must be maintained, a spokesperson has stated. “International law enshrines freedom of navigation, which means exactly what it says: no payment, no toll, of any kind,” said spokesperson Anwar al-Anouni.
In Mazraa, rescue workers search for 5 people believed trapped under rubble; building targeted was aid distribution center for displaced people
In the Corniche al-Mazraa area of Beirut, where Israel struck a building as part of its sweeping bombing campaign yesterday, “five people are believed to still be trapped under the rubble,” according to a fire brigade section commander who spoke on condition of anonymity to our correspondent on the ground, Caroline Hayek. He believes the chances of finding survivors are slim, noting that “since this morning, pieces of flesh have been recovered.”
He did not provide a death toll for the strike.
The building targeted by the Israeli strike had been converted into an aid distribution center for displaced people. It regularly received crowds of people coming to collect food supplies. The surrounding buildings have burned down. The damage is enormous. But people in neighboring buildings have only suffered injuries.
“I am Sunni and I have come to the site of this massacre to show my solidarity. It is not just Shias who were targeted. These are Lebanese people. Israel is criminal and all the Sunni Arab countries are doing nothing; they are hiding behind Israel,” accuses a resident who refuses to give his name.
Reports of proposal to declare Beirut ‘Hezbollah-free zone’ unfounded
L’Orient-Le Jour has learnt that reports circulating in local media regarding heightened tensions at the Cabinet meeting currently taking place at the Baabda Presidential Palace, over an initiative to declare Beirut a “Hezbollah-free zone,” are unfounded.
According to our information, ministers are simply considering a “security plan” for the capital.
In Tallet al-Khayat, Beirut, two people still missing following Israel's strike Wednesday evening
(Credit: Lyana Alameddine/L'Orient Today)
In Tallet al-Khayat, where entire sections of a residential building collapsed following an Israeli strike on Wednesday at around 7 pm, Civil Defense teams, who arrived on the scene this morning, are searching for two people still missing: an Ethiopian woman and an elderly man who was in the adjoining building, part of which was torn away, reports our correspondent on the ground, Lyana Alameddine.
Death toll from Israeli strike on Zrarieh continues to rise, as Israeli bombing continues
The situation in southern Lebanon, according to our correspondent in the region:
- An Israeli strike has targeted, for the second time today, a secondary road near the Kharayeb bridge, south of Saida. The first strike targeted the outskirts of Adloun and Kharayeb.
- The body of a woman has been found under the rubble of the al-Zahraa complex in Saida, targeted with an airstrike on Wednesday.
- Mansouri (Sour) was bombed.
- The death toll from the strike on Zrarieh (Saida) has continued to rise and now stands at 11: eight villagers and three people from neighboring villages.
- Israeli artillery shelling targeted Bint Jbeil, Kounin, Beit Yahoun (Bint Jbeil) and Mansouri (Sour).
Hezbollah claims responsibility for rocket attacks on Israeli towns of Kiryat Shmona and Metula
Hezbollah has claimed responsibility for a barrage of rockets fired at 10 am, a second at 10.50 am and a third at 11.30 am against the Israeli town of Kiryat Shmona, located opposite the Lebanese town of Houla.
It also stated that it had targeted the town of Metula, in the Upper Galilee, at 10.50 am.
According to Haaretz, air-raid sirens sounded at least seven times between 11 am and 1 pm in northern Israel following Hezbollah rocket fire.
Hezbollah's statement specifies that this attack comes “in response to Israeli violations of the cease-fire agreement” and that “this retaliation will continue until the U.S.-Israeli aggression against our country and our people ceases."
Israel's Wednesday assault kills 4 Lebanese soldiers
The Lebanese Army announced on Thursday that Israel's assault on Lebanon Wednesday killed four of its soldiers.
According to a statement from the army, Corporal Hussein Khaled Yassine was killed in an air strike in Saida.
Private First Class Mohammad Bassam Chheitali and Private Ali Hassan Kassem were killed in strikes on Shmestar (Baalbeck).
Finally, Ali Nassereddine, a cadet, was killed in a strike in the Hermel region (Bekaa).
Iran death toll: More than 3,000 killed in US-Israeli attacks
More than 3,000 Iranians were killed by U.S.-Israeli attacks since the start of the war on Feb. 28, Iran’s chief forensic official told state media on Thursday, adding that 40% of the deceased required forensic examinations to be identified and returned to their families, according to Reuters.
Negotiations with Israel: Nawaf Salam meets with Nabih Berri
Photo: NNA
Prime Minister Nawaf Salam met with Speaker of Parliament Nabih Berri on Thursday. According to L’Orient Today, the meeting between the two leaders is expected to pave the way for “a decision by the Cabinet regarding the negotiations,” according to a government source.
Salam then met with the President Joseph Aoun, before the start of the Cabinet meeting at the Baabda Presidential Palace.
Following his meeting with Salam, Berri received the Egyptian Ambassador to Beirut, Alaa Moussa. Cairo is involved in diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the situation in Lebanon.
Benjamin Netanyahu confirms killing of Ali Youssef Horchi in strike on Beirut
Benjamin Netanyahu has confirmed that the Israeli army did indeed kill Ali Youssef Horchi, “the personal secretary to Hezbollah Secretary-General Naim Qassem and one of his closest associates,” in a strike on Beirut Wednesday, according to a post on X.
Cyprus condemns Israeli attacks and reaffirms its solidarity with Lebanon
Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides this morning “condemned” the relentless Israeli attacks on Lebanon.
During a telephone conversation with President Joseph Aoun, he also reaffirmed “his country’s solidarity with Lebanon and its people in these difficult circumstances, as well as its willingness to help bring an end to the escalation and alleviate the suffering of the friendly Lebanese people by providing medical, humanitarian and emergency aid,” reports the Lebanese Presidency on X.
“During the conversation, the two leaders exchanged views on the latest developments in Lebanon and the region, as well as on ways to restore stability in these countries, and on what Cyprus, which currently holds the EU presidency, can do to support Lebanon,” the statement noted.
Aoun, for his part, “thanked the Cypriot President for his consistently supportive stance towards Lebanon, as well as for the solidarity of the friendly Cypriot people with the Lebanese people.”
Emir of Qatar tells Aoun of his desire to help include Lebanon in the ceasefire agreement
President Joseph Aoun announced that he had received a telephone call from the Emir of Qatar, Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, during which the latter “offered, on behalf of the Qatari people, his condolences to the victims of the relentless Israeli attacks on Lebanon and expressed the State of Qatar’s solidarity with Lebanon during the difficult circumstances it is facing,” reports the Lebanese Presidency on X.
The Emir of Qatar also expressed “his willingness to offer assistance in any way that might help bring an end to the military escalation, particularly with regard to the inclusion of Lebanon in the cease-fire agreement between the United States of America and Iran,” the Presidency further emphasized.
Aoun, for his part, said he had “thanked the Emir of Qatar for his consistently supportive stance towards Lebanon and its people, praising the support provided by Qatar to Lebanon and the Lebanese people in all areas and under all circumstances, particularly in terms of medical supplies and emergency aid.”
EU believes truce between Tehran and Washington must include Lebanon
“Hezbollah has dragged Lebanon into the war, but Israel’s right to defend itself does not justify inflicting such massive destruction,” wrote the European Union’s foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, on X, adding that “Israel’s actions are putting the ceasefire between the United States and Iran under severe strain” and that “the truce with Iran should be extended to Lebanon.”
“Israeli strikes killed hundreds of people last night, making it difficult to argue that such heavy-handed actions constitute self-defense,” she also condemned, before calling on Hezbollah to disarm “as it had committed to doing.”
“The European Union supports Lebanon’s efforts to disarm Hezbollah,” she concluded.
Cabinet meeting begins at the Presidential Palace in Baabda
The Cabinet meeting began half an hour ago at the Presidential Palace in Baabda, chaired by President Joseph Aoun.
It began with a minute’s silence in memory of the victims of Israel's assault on Lebanon yesterday, at the President's request, according to a statement published on X by the Lebanese Presidency’s website.
Shortly before the meeting, the president and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam held talks behind closed doors.
Iran insists that its ‘enemies’ will not succeed in curbing its nuclear programme
The head of Iran’s nuclear program, Mohammad Eslami: "The enemy will not succeed in curbing Iran’s enrichment program," according to the Iranian news agency ISNA, as reported by Reuters.
Toll from Israel's assault on Lebanon on Wednesday continues to rise
Health Minister Rakan Nasreddine stated that “203 martyrs and over 1,000 injured” had been recorded following yesterday’s Israeli air strikes, whilst the Civil Defense reported “254 dead and 1,165 injured."
A Civil Defense spokesperson explained to L’Orient-Le Jour that “many of the injured are being treated on site and are not being transferred to hospitals, which may affect the Health Ministry’s figures.”
He added: “We are basing our figures on data from the Civil Defense operations room, relayed by teams on the ground, and the Health Ministry’s figures may rise later once a final tally has been established.”
Israeli strikes continue to destroy homes in southern Lebanon,
Israeli strikes are continuing in southern Lebanon, causing further casualties and destruction, according to our correspondent in the region.
An Israeli air strike on a house in Qaaqaiyet al-Snoubar, south of Saida, injured several people.
An Israeli drone strike also targeted Sarafand and the outskirts of Baissariyeh, also south of Saida (Nabatieh).
A drone targeted Shaytieh and an air strike hit Mansouri (Sour), whilst heavy artillery targeted Kfar Tibnit (Nabatieh).
Third air strike alert in northern Israel within an hour, according to Haaretz
Sirens sounded for the third time in an hour in Kiryat Shmona, in northern Israel, as well as in the surrounding areas, following a barrage of rockets fired by Hezbollah, Haaretz reported, citing the Israeli army.
The army reported that four rockets were intercepted and stated that no damage had been reported.
Israeli strikes: China calls for respect for Lebanon’s ‘sovereignty and security’
China has called for respect for Lebanon’s "sovereignty and security" following deadly Israeli air strikes the previous day, which killed at least 182 people and injured 890 injured according to Health Ministry figures, reports AFP.
“Lebanon’s sovereignty and security must not be violated, and the lives and property of civilians must be protected. China calls on the parties concerned to exercise calm and restraint, and to work towards de-escalating the situation in the region,” Mao Ning, a spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, told the press. She did not specifically answer a question on whether the cease-fire agreed between Iran and the United States should be extended to Lebanon.
Lebanon: French Foreign Minister condemns ‘intolerable attacks’
The Israeli strikes on Lebanon are "intolerable," French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said on France Inter, emphasizing that France was "fully" joining in Lebanon’s day of national mourning, reports AFP.
“We strongly condemn these massive strikes which ... in ten minutes, caused more than 250 deaths, adding to the 1,500 victims of this [war],” he said. “And these attacks are all the more intolerable as they undermine the temporary cease-fire reached yesterday between the United States and Iran,” he added.
“Lebanon must not be the scapegoat for a government upset because a cease-fire has been reached between the United States and Iran,” he remarked, while also expressing harsh words towards Hezbollah.
“Today is a day of national mourning in Lebanon and we fully join in that,” the minister added.
He also pointed out that France, like many European countries, insists that Lebanon be included in the truce between the United States, Israel, and Iran.
In his view, “it is not in Israel’s interests to bombard Lebanon.”
Israel claims killing Ali Youssef Horchi, adviser, personal secretary, and nephew of Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem, in Beirut on Wednesday.
Israel has claimed to have killed Ali Youssef Horchi, the adviser, personal secretary, and nephew of Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem, in Beirut on Wednesday.
“Ali Horchi was a close associate and personal adviser to Hezbollah Secretary-General Naim Qassem, and played a central role in the management and security of his office,” said the statement published on X by the Israeli army’s Arabic-language spokesperson, Ella Waweya. She did not specify where Horchi was killed, but local media had reported on Wednesday that he was believed to have been residing in the bombed building in Tallet al-Khayat, in west Beirut.
The Qasmieh Bridge in southern Lebanon partially reopens northbound
The Lebanese Army has reopened the road at the Qasmieh coastal bridge in southern Lebanon, after clearing the rubble caused by yesterday’s strikes, allowing a narrow passage to be opened for use only by cars leaving Sour, our correspondent reports.
A significant movement of people from the Sour region is currently crossing the bridge towards safer areas.
Air France extends suspension of flights to Middle East until May 3
Air France has announced an extension of the suspension of its flights to the Middle East until May 3, according to a statement sent to AFP on Thursday, a decision taken prior to the cease-fire between the United States and Iran.
“Due to the security situation at the destination and the continued closure of airspace to commercial flights, the airline is obliged to extend the suspension of its flights to and from Tel Aviv, Beirut, Dubai, and Riyadh until May 3, 2026, inclusive [or until 4 May 2026 for flights departing from Dubai],” explains Air France.
“The resumption of operations will remain subject to an assessment of the security situation on the ground, which is constantly evolving. Affected customers are being informed individually,” states the group, which has increased flights from several Asian destinations since early March to compensate for the massive cancellations of flights by Middle Eastern airlines.
The provisional death toll from the Israeli strike on Zrarieh rises to 9
The Israeli strike on a residential building in Zrarieh has killed at least 9 people, according to a new provisional toll reported by our correspondent in southern Lebanon. Civil Defense teams are still searching for missing people under the rubble.
The village mukhtara, Zahra Mroueh, told L’Orient-Le Jour that the majority of the victims are women, including people with special needs.
London is 'strongly' calling for the cease-fire to be 'extended' to Lebanon
The UK “strongly” hopes that the cease-fire between Washington and Tehran will be “extended” to Lebanon, said British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper to Sky News, expressing “deep concern” over the deadly Israeli attacks on the country on Wednesday, reports AFP.
“I am deeply concerned by the escalation of attacks carried out yesterday by Israel in Lebanon; we have seen the humanitarian consequences of these acts, particularly the mass displacement of people in Lebanon,” she continued.
Hezbollah targets an Israeli vehicle in Taybeh, southern Lebanon
Hezbollah has claimed responsibility for a guided missile attack at 8.45 am on a "Namira"-type Israeli vehicle positioned in the Lebanese town of Taybeh (Marjayoun), stating that it had "directly hit the target."
Israeli strikes on southern Lebanon kill 7 people in Abbasieh, 6 in Zrarieh
Deadly Israeli strikes continue in the south, according to our correspondent. One of them wiped out an entire family this morning in Abbasieh in the district of Sour, killing seven people and injuring four, according to the mayor, Habib Ajami, who added that rescue teams are continuing to clear the rubble.
In Zrarieh (Saida), a village north of the Litani River, strikes targeted several homes in the village center, killing six people, according to a preliminary assessment by rescue workers on the ground, contacted by our correspondent. One resident told L'Orient-Le Jour of several successive strikes that hit six houses. “The ground shook” from the force of the explosions, whilst debris flew in all directions and thick black smoke blanketed the area, according to the man.
Israel also targeted homes in Doueir (Nabatieh), and struck Jibsheet and Mayfadoun in the same district.
Israel also bombed Kounin (Bint Jbeil) and Qleileh (Sour).
Strikes on southern Lebanon continue Thursday morning and overnight
Israeli bombardments targeted southern Lebanon Thursday morning and overnight, according to our correspondent:
Israel struck Khiam twice (Marjayoun) at 6 a.m., as well as Zrarieh (Saida).
During the night, airstrikes hit the towns of Jmaijmeh, Ghandourieh, Safad al-Battikh, Kafra, and Deir Antar in the Bint Jbeil district. Israeli aircraft also bombed Majdal Selm and Tayr Debba (Sour).
In addition, Israel targeted Haris (Bint Jbeil) with artillery fire.
According to our correspondent’s tally, on Wednesday alone, 68 locations in southern Lebanon were targeted by fighter jets, drones struck 14 sites in as many towns, and 18 villages were hit by artillery fire.
Strait of Hormuz: Iran announces 2 alternative shipping routes, citing possible 'mines'
Iran’s Revolutionary Guards Navy has announced that ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz must take two alternative routes closer to the Iranian coast, citing the possibility of “mines” along the usual offshore route.
“To avoid potential collisions with mines, and in coordination with the Revolutionary Guards Navy, … until further notice, vessels must use alternative routes for traffic through the Strait of Hormuz,” Iranian media reported, citing a military statement accompanied by a nautical chart showing routes south and north of Larak Island.
Ships entering the Gulf from the Gulf of Oman must pass between the Iranian coast and Larak. The exit route from the Gulf now runs south of the island, avoiding the usual path closer to Oman’s coast.
US military to remain near Iran until 'real agreeement' implemented, Trump says
The U.S. military will remain deployed near Iran until a “real deal” is fully implemented, President Donald Trump said last night, following the announcement of a fragile two-week cease-fire between the United States and Iran.
“All U.S. Ships, Aircraft, and Military Personnel, with additional Ammunition, Weaponry, and anything else that is appropriate and necessary for the lethal prosecution and destruction of an already substantially degraded Enemy, will remain in place in, and around, Iran, until such time as the REAL AGREEMENT reached is fully complied with,” he wrote on Truth Social, warning that otherwise it will hit "stronger than anyone has ever seen before."
Overnight strikes hit Beirut’s southern suburbs
In addition to Wednesday afternoon’s strikes, the Israeli army continued its bombardments across the country. Two air strikes were carried out overnight on Beirut’s southern suburbs, targeting Haret Hreik shortly before 11 p.m. and Chiyah after 1 a.m.
Wednesday night’s attacks also targeted the bridge on the Qasmieh coastal road in southern Lebanon — the last link between the north and south of the Litani River in the Sour region, where thousands of families remain despite Israeli evacuation warnings. The Israeli army later boasted that it had “isolated” southern Lebanon from the rest of the country.
Israel strikes in Lebanon threaten Iran-US cease-fire
Ongoing Israeli attacks in Lebanon have shaken the cease-fire agreed just over 24 hours ago between Iran and the United States. Tehran says Lebanon is included in the agreement and views the bombings as a violation, a claim rejected by Tel Aviv and Washington.
Iranian President Massoud Pezeshkian emphasized Wednesday that a cease-fire in Lebanon is one of the “essential conditions” of Iran’s ten-point plan underpinning the truce.
U.S. Vice President JD Vance said, “If Iran wants to let this negotiation fall apart, in a conflict where they were getting hammered, over Lebanon, which has nothing to do with them, and which the United States never once said was part of the cease-fire, that’s ultimately their choice. We think that would be dumb, but that’s their choice.”
National day of mourning in Lebanon as Israeli strikes kill at least 182 people on Wednesday
Lebanon is observing a national day of mourning today following Israel's assault the previous day. All government offices and schools are closed.
According to figures released Wednesday evening by the Health Ministry, Wednesday’s strikes killed at least 182 and injured 890. This brings the total toll of the Israeli offensive since March 2 to at least 1,739 killed and 5,873 injured.
The Lebaense Civil Defense, meanwhile, reported a higher toll of at least 256 killed on Wednesday alone.
Hezbollah claims rocket fire on northern Israel, first in over 24 hours
On Wednesday night into Thursday, Hezbollah claimed a rocket strike at 2:30 a.m. on the Israeli village of Manara, near the Blue Line, opposite the eastern sector of southern Lebanon. This attack — the first claimed by Hezbollah since the previous night — was described as “a response to the enemy’s violation of the cease-fire agreement” following Wednesday’s massive Israeli strikes. “This response will continue until the Israeli-American aggression against our country and our people ceases,” the party-militia warned.
Hezbollah had halted its attacks on northern Israel after the announcement of a cease-fire between Iran and the United States, although Tel Aviv said Lebanon was not part of agreement. The Lebanese front had been explicitly mentioned by Islamabad, the mediator of the cease-fire.
Welcome to our live coverage of the war in the Middle East, focusing on the conflict between Hezbollah and Israel, following yesterday's massive and deadly Israeli strikes across Lebanon.
These attacks threaten the cease-fire reached between Iran and the United States on Tuesday into Wednesday night.
➡️ Read our Morning Brief for a full recap of what happened yesterday.
➡️ Catch up on Wednesday’s live coverage here for full details of this dark day for Lebanon.
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