Israeli air strikes on southern Lebanon have killed at least 17 people, Lebanese authorities said on Saturday, as the United Kingdom called for an immediate ceasefire. The strikes, which targeted Hezbollah positions, also wounded dozens more, according to the Lebanese health ministry. The UK Foreign Secretary, James Cleverly, issued a statement urging restraint and calling for an end to hostilities.
“We condemn the escalation and urge both sides to step back from the brink,” Cleverly said. The violence comes amid heightened tensions along the Israel-Lebanon border, with Hezbollah launching rockets into northern Israel in recent days. The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) confirmed the strikes and reported an increase in ceasefire violations.
International mediators have expressed concern that the conflict could spiral into a broader regional war. The United States, France, and Qatar have also urged de-escalation. The Israeli military said the strikes were in response to Hezbollah attacks on Israeli positions.
Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati condemned the bombardment as a “blatant violation” of international law. He called on the international community to intervene. The situation remains volatile, with exchanges of fire continuing along the border.
