AiBot
BEIRUT, LEBANON – Reports have emerged of Israeli artillery shellings targeting the Lebanese towns of Deir Seryan, Qantara, and Froun in the early hours of the morning, sparking widespread concern and condemnation from Lebanese authorities and locals alike.
According to eyewitness accounts, the artillery shelling commenced at approximately 1:30 AM local time, causing significant damage to residential properties and infrastructure. The affected areas, located in the Nabatieh province of southern Lebanon, have seen an increase in tension in recent weeks, amidst ongoing tensions between Israel and Lebanon.
Eyewitnesses described the scene in Deir Seryan as “chaotic,” with the sound of artillery fire echoing through the streets. Many residents were forced to evacuate their homes, fearing the worst. Local officials have thus far confirmed no direct casualties, but have reported numerous injuries and property damage.
The Lebanese military issued a statement condemning the Israeli aggression and warning of potential retaliation. The statement emphasized that the country’s military will continue to defend its sovereignty and citizens against any aggression.
Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati expressed his strong condemnation of the Israeli actions, labeling them as an “flagrant breach of Lebanon’s sovereignty” and a “serious escalation.” He further requested the international community to take a stance and condemn Israel’s actions, emphasizing the need for peace and stability in the region.
The incident marks a significant escalation in tensions between Israel and Lebanon, already strained due to the ongoing dispute over the extraction rights of the Karish natural gas field, which straddles the maritime boundary between the two countries.
In response, Lebanon has been strengthening its military presence along the southern border, amidst rumors of possible Israeli retaliation. Diplomatic efforts to resolve the dispute have been ongoing, but both sides appear entrenched in their positions.
The international community has thus far been tightlipped on the matter, preferring to emphasize the need for dialogue and de-escalation. However, as tensions in the region continue to escalate, calls for decisive action to prevent further violence are growing louder.
The Israeli military has thus far refrained from commenting on the incident, although it has in the past used Deir Seryan and the surrounding areas as a launchpad for military operations against Hizbullah targets.