Israel violates Lebanon ceasefire during truce talks

Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon on June 1 have already marred the initial hours of new ceasefire negotiations in Washington. The strikes, which killed two civilians, occurred as both nations aimed to consolidate Israel's withdrawal from southern Lebanon.

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a group of armed men who posed a direct threat

Lebanese National News Agency reported that Israeli soldiers fired on civilians clearing a road in the Deir neighborhood of Nabatieh al-Fawqa. Hezbollah condemned the action as a "flagrant violation" of the ceasefire agreement, asserting that the civilians were working to clear rubble when they were targeted. The group stated it had adhered to the truce since its implementation.

The incident underscores the contradictions in Israel's approach. While participating in US-sponsored talks for a long-term truce, Israeli forces continue military operations within Lebanese territory. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated the army would remain in southern Lebanon "as long as necessary," emphasizing the continued maintenance of Israel's "security zone."

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Flagrant violation

These sensitive talks are taking place amid a complex regional climate, heightened by a recent US-Iran agreement. The US-Iranian talks announced a "conflict resolution cell" to ensure adherence to the cessation of hostilities in Lebanon. Beirut's delegation in Washington seeks a clear timetable for Israeli withdrawal, the deployment of the Lebanese army, and the safe return of residents to their villages. Official Lebanese statistics indicate the war, which began March 2, has resulted in 4,175 deaths, 12,164 injuries, and the displacement of approximately 1.2 million people.

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as long as necessary