Lebanese President Condemns Israeli Airstrikes as Obstacle to Ceasefire Efforts

BEIRUT (CNA) — Lebanese President Joseph Aoun condemned the latest Israeli airstrikes on Lebanon today, stating that these "killings and destruction constitute a dangerous escalation" that obstructs ceasefire efforts in the Middle East.

The Israeli military confirmed in a statement released early today that it launched attacks against Hezbollah targets and infrastructure in southern Lebanon starting late last night. The operations across southern and eastern Lebanon have resulted in at least 18 deaths.

The Lebanese presidency issued a statement emphasizing that these actions directly undermine ongoing efforts to achieve a ceasefire and conclude the conflict. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has rejected calls for a withdrawal from Lebanon, asserting that Israeli forces will remain in the region until the threat posed by Hezbollah is fully neutralized.