BEIRUT — Israeli military strikes continued in parts of southern Lebanon on Friday despite ongoing U.S.-backed diplomatic efforts to implement a ceasefire framework, underscoring the fragility of attempts to end months of cross-border fighting between Israel and Hezbollah.
Lebanese state media and health authorities reported additional strikes in southern areas, while the Israeli military has consistently said its operations are directed at Hezbollah positions and infrastructure it says pose an ongoing security threat. Israeli officials have maintained that military action will continue until Hezbollah's military capabilities are removed from areas near the border and security conditions are met.
The continued attacks come as Israeli and Lebanese officials pursue indirect negotiations under U.S. mediation aimed at implementing a framework announced in late June. The agreement calls for the gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces from designated areas in southern Lebanon, the deployment of the Lebanese Armed Forces, and efforts to dismantle armed infrastructure operated by militant groups.
A U.S. official described recent talks in Rome as constructive and said both sides had agreed to continue discussions on implementing the framework through phased measures, including pilot zones intended to test security arrangements before broader implementation.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has called for Israel to begin withdrawing from southern Lebanese territory in accordance with the agreement, while reiterating support for restoring state authority in the south. Hezbollah, which was not a party to the negotiations, has rejected the framework's disarmament provisions and has said Israeli forces must withdraw before any broader settlement can be considered.
The latest hostilities follow months of fighting that intensified after a wider regional conflict erupted earlier this year. Israel says its military operations are necessary to prevent attacks by Hezbollah, while Lebanese officials have accused Israel of violating Lebanese sovereignty and undermining ceasefire efforts. Reuters has not independently verified all battlefield claims made by either side.
Despite continued diplomatic engagement by the United States and international partners, no comprehensive cessation of hostilities has taken hold. Officials involved in the negotiations have said technical discussions will continue as both sides seek to implement the framework, although fighting on the ground remains ongoing.
