An Israeli air strike in eastern Lebanon killed two people, marking another escalation in ongoing tensions with Hezbollah. Meanwhile, former Iraqi Prime Minister al-Kadhimi returned to Baghdad amidst security threats, and Iran rejected direct U.S. negotiations on its nuclear program. Additionally, Syrian officials condemned Netanyahu’s remarks on military presence near Damascus, calling for international intervention against Israeli actions.
Lebanese state media reported that an Israeli air strike occurred on Tuesday in eastern Lebanon, resulting in the deaths of at least two individuals and injuring two others. The strike, executed by an enemy drone, targeted the town of Shaara, which is located near the eastern mountain range where Israel has historically conducted operations against Hezbollah militants. This incident follows a war between Hezbollah and Israel that concluded with a ceasefire in late November last year.
Despite the truce established on November 27, which mandated Israel’s withdrawal from southern Lebanon and the dismantling of Hezbollah’s military presence in the region, tensions persisted. Hezbollah has faced significant challenges from the conflict, suffering leadership losses and a weakened status following two months of intense warfare. Israeli forces continue to occupy strategic positions in the area despite the ceasefire.
The situation escalates alongside ongoing political developments in Iraq, where former prime minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi returned to Baghdad despite existing security threats. After surviving an assassination attempt in 2021, he had spent time in London and the UAE, but political leaders in Iraq invited him back to aid in confronting a severe economic crisis. His return could signal potential political maneuvers ahead of the upcoming parliamentary elections.
In a separate diplomatic matter, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi firmly rejected the possibility of direct negotiations with the U.S. regarding Iran’s nuclear program. His comments coincided with the announcement of new U.S. sanctions against Iranian individuals linked to oil sales. Araghchi noted, “We will not negotiate under pressure, threat or sanctions,” emphasizing Iran’s opposition to negotiations under current conditions.
Syria’s national dialogue conference condemned Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s remarks regarding Syrian military forces’ presence south of Damascus. Attendees demanded that the international community pressure Israel to cease its military actions and violations. In response, Netanyahu insisted Israel must prevent militant groups from entering the area and sought complete demilitarization in the region.
The recent Israeli air strike in eastern Lebanon underscores ongoing tensions and conflicts related to Hezbollah. Meanwhile, Iraq’s political landscape is shifting with the return of al-Kadhimi in light of economic struggles. Concurrently, Iranian leaders remain firm on avoiding U.S. negotiations regarding nuclear activities. Lastly, Syria stands firm against Israeli aggression, reaffirming its sovereignty and demanding international support.
Original Source: www.arabnews.pk
