The Israeli military has issued an updated account of its recent operations in southern Lebanon, stating that three Hezbollah fighters were killed during the offensive. It also reported carrying out airstrikes on the group’s infrastructure across the region as part of a broader campaign to dismantle its operational network. Expanding beyond its intended zone of control, Israeli forces confirmed strikes in areas north of the “Yellow Line.” The military added that one of its soldiers was lightly injured during the العمليات and was evacuated for medical care.

These developments come as Hezbollah leadership adopts a firmer stance. The group’s chief, Naim Qassem, reiterated on Monday that Hezbollah will not enter direct negotiations with Israel and will continue resisting what he described as Israeli aggression. He emphasized that disarmament is not an option and maintained that the group remains prepared for confrontation.

Qassem also criticized the Lebanese government’s diplomatic approach, arguing that it had made unnecessary concessions. He called for an end to direct talks and instead urged authorities to pursue indirect negotiations. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said its troops targeted what it described as imminent threats in southern Lebanon. According to the military, three individuals approaching an area south of the Forward Defence Line were identified and subsequently struck by the Israeli Air Force.

The IDF also reported strikes on the headquarters of the Bint Jbeil sector and other military sites, noting that secondary explosions suggested weapons were stored there. It reaffirmed its intention to continue acting decisively against threats to Israeli civilians and soldiers. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also weighed in, stating that Hezbollah’s actions are weakening the ceasefire arrangement in Lebanon. He warned that Israel would respond forcefully to maintain security along its northern border and stressed that military operations are ongoing despite perceptions otherwise.

Netanyahu highlighted that protecting citizens and troops remains the top priority, especially in northern Israel, and noted that operations are being conducted in coordination with the United States and within agreed frameworks involving Lebanon. The recent escalation follows an announcement on April 23 by US President Donald Trump extending the ceasefire for three weeks, with Washington pledging to work with Lebanon to strengthen its capacity to counter Hezbollah’s influence.