Israeli Forces Eliminate Two Hezbollah-Linked Operatives in Southern Lebanon, Citing Ceasefire Violations

BEIRUT, Lebanon – Israeli forces have confirmed the elimination of two senior militants linked to Hezbollah and the Lebanese Brigades in southern Lebanon within a two-hour period. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) stated that these actions were taken in response to what they described as violations of the understandings between Israel and Lebanon, asserting their continued commitment to removing threats to the State of Israel.

One of the targeted operatives, identified as Al-Munim Musa Sweidan, was struck in the town of Yatar. He was accused of coordinating military and economic operations with local residents and utilizing civilian homes to store weapons and surveillance equipment. The second individual was targeted in Shuba and was reportedly active within Hezbollah-backed armed groups.

The IDF emphasized the rationale behind these strikes in a statement: > "The activities of the terrorists constituted a violation of the understandings between Israel and Lebanon. The IDF will continue to operate in order to remove any threat to the State of Israel." This statement was also highlighted in a tweet by Mario Nawfal, citing the IDF as the source.

These operations occur in the context of a fragile ceasefire agreement signed between Israel and Lebanon in November 2024, mediated by the United States and France. The agreement mandates a cessation of hostilities and stipulates that Lebanon's official military and security forces are to be the sole armed entities in the Southern Litani Area. Hezbollah is required to withdraw its forces north of the Litani River, while Israel is to withdraw its forces south of the Blue Line.

Despite the ceasefire, both sides have reported violations. Israel maintains its right to self-defense and has continued to conduct operations against what it identifies as Hezbollah targets, particularly those that violate the terms of the agreement. The recent strikes underscore the persistent tensions and the ongoing struggle to enforce the terms of the November 2024 understanding in southern Lebanon.