The Lebanese Health Ministry reported on Wednesday that Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon killed five people, posing a significant threat to the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hezbollah that took effect on November 27.

The strikes hit the towns of Ainata, Bint Jbeil, and Beit Lif. One person was killed and another injured in Ainata, three fatalities were reported in Bint Jbeil, and one person was killed in Beit Lif.

In accordance with the ceasefire agreement, the Lebanese Army has started deploying troops alongside UN peacekeepers in southern Lebanon, including the strategic border town of Khiam. This marks the first phase of the truce, requiring Hezbollah to pull its forces north of the Litani River while Israel is expected to complete its withdrawal within 60 days.

The Lebanese Army announced its units had been stationed at five positions around Khiam and confirmed ongoing efforts to remove unexploded ordnance in the area. UN peacekeepers overseeing Israeli withdrawal operations discovered a man’s body near his home in Khiam earlier today.

The truce, designed to end weeks of conflict that left thousands dead and displaced scores of civilians, has faced significant hurdles. Lebanese sources report that Israel has violated the ceasefire over 100 times since its implementation, prompting Hezbollah to launch retaliatory strikes.

The escalating tensions raise concerns about the long-term viability of the agreement, which aimed to restore stability to the region. (ILKHA)