The Israeli-Lebanese border has seen its heaviest exchange of attacks since a four-month ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah. The violence comes as Israel vows to intensify its offensive in Gaza until Hamas releases the remaining Israeli hostages.
According to Associated Press, the situation is complex, and it appears to be a one-off incident on the Lebanese side, with no claimed responsibility for the rocket fire. However, tensions across the region have been raised due to Israel’s renewed attacks in Gaza.
Hamas has criticized the Israeli actions but is currently keeping a low profile, calling for restraint and negotiations. In contrast, Israel appears to be pushing ahead with its military operation, despite efforts behind the scenes to revive the ceasefire.
The situation is further complicated by the status of phase two of the ceasefire agreement in Gaza, which would involve discussions on the end of the war and withdrawal of Israeli troops. However, Israel has made it clear that it does not want to discuss these issues at present.
Public opinion in Israel seems divided, with some people opposing the resumption of fighting, citing concerns about the humanitarian conditions of the hostages and the potential for further violence to harden Hamas’s stance. Despite this, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has continued to pursue a hardline approach, leaving room for public demonstrations against his decision.
Source: https://www.pbs.org/newshour/show/violence-flares-on-israeli-lebanese-border-as-israel-steps-up-attacks-in-gaza