Israeli strikes hit southern Lebanon despite June framework deal

Israeli forces carried out artillery shelling and an airstrike in southern Lebanon on Friday, Lebanon’s state-run National News Agency (NNA) reported, despite a framework deal brokered by the United States.

At dawn, artillery fire targeted Wadi Zibqin and the outskirts of Baraachit and Haddatha, the agency said. Shelling also hit Mansouri, Majdal Zoun and nearby valleys, while flares were fired over Beit Lif and Srifa.

An Israeli warplane struck the outskirts of Kfar Tebnit in the Nabatieh district, according to the NNA.

Artillery fire also hit Wadi al-Salouqi and the outskirts of Nabatieh al-Fawqa, Kfar Tebnit and Mayfadoun, the agency reported.

The attacks continued despite a US-sponsored framework deal signed by Beirut and Tel Aviv on June 26. The agreement provides for a gradual Israeli withdrawal from Lebanese territory and the deployment of the Lebanese army in areas vacated by Israeli forces.

Since March 2, the Israeli offensive has killed at least 4,386 people and wounded 12,413, according to Lebanese authorities.