Two Lebanese nationals were killed in separate Israeli drone strikes on Tuesday, marking the latest breach of a fragile ceasefire agreement in southern Lebanon, according to the Health Ministry.
One strike targeted a vehicle in the town of Hanieh in Tyre district, resulting in the death of one individual, whose identity has yet to be confirmed.
In a separate attack, a fire erupted in a car following another Israeli strike in Bawarta, located in Mount Lebanon. Emergency responders later recovered a body from the wreckage.
The Lebanese group al-Jamaa al-Islamiya (Islamic Group) later identified the second victim as military commander Hussein Atoui. Atoui, who was reportedly traveling from his home in Bawarta to his workplace in Beirut, was condemned by the group as the victim of a “cowardly crime.”
The Israeli military confirmed the attack, claiming Atoui was involved in planning attacks against Israeli targets.
Since November, a ceasefire has been in place between Israel and Hezbollah, following a violent escalation of conflict in September. However, Lebanese authorities have reported over 2,764 violations of the ceasefire by Israel, including the deaths of at least 194 individuals and injuries to 485 others.
Under the ceasefire agreement, Israel was to withdraw from southern Lebanon by January 26, but the deadline was extended to February 18 after Israel failed to comply. Israel continues to maintain a military presence at five border outposts.
