Despite Imminent End-of-War Talks, Israel Launches Massive Airstrikes Following Evacuation Orders

While expectations for a ceasefire in Lebanon are growing as a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to end the war between the United States and Iran appears imminent, Israel has expanded its offensive targeting the pro-Iranian militant group Hezbollah in Lebanon.

According to the New York Times and CNN on the 13th (local time), the Israeli military issued evacuation orders to residents of 20 villages in southern Lebanon today before launching massive airstrikes.

The airstrikes resulted in a series of casualties, including the death of the mayor of the Al-Haniyeh region in southern Lebanon.

Lebanon's state-run news agency reported that the Israeli military struck various areas, including Tyre, Jezzine, and Nabatieh, and that even a church was hit.

The Israeli military stated that it had struck over 70 Hezbollah infrastructure sites in southern Lebanon over the past 24 hours.

Hezbollah continued its offensive, claiming to have struck 19 Israeli military outposts.

This clash is drawing attention as it occurs amid speculation that the U.S.-Iran memorandum of understanding could encompass a ceasefire on the Lebanese front.

Iran has consistently demanded that a ceasefire in Lebanon must be included in any agreement with the United States.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi emphasized in an interview with state television yesterday that the memorandum, which has yet to be signed, would contain solutions for "all fronts," including the conflict in Lebanon.

However, Israel maintains a hardline stance.

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that the military would not withdraw from occupied areas in Lebanon and that the forces would "respond to both near and far threats."

Consequently, analysts suggest that even if a ceasefire clause for Lebanon is included in the memorandum, Israel may secure room to continue military operations against Hezbollah, citing security necessities.

(Photo: AP, Yonhap News)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.