Israeli strikes kill 11 in southern Lebanon despite ceasefire

What happened

Israeli airstrikes on southern Lebanon killed at least 11 people, including several children, in the worst attacks since the US-brokered ceasefire was renewed in June. Strikes hit villages including Ansar and Deir al-Zahrani, and targeted areas near the UNESCO-listed Beaufort Castle. Israel said it was responding to a Hezbollah action and claimed it killed two Hezbollah commanders. Hezbollah has not commented.

Why it matters

The escalation threatens the fragile US-brokered ceasefire and the upcoming Lebanese-Israeli talks. Analysts say Israel is allowed by the US to attack without consequences, with more than 4,300 people killed in Lebanon since March and about 600,000 displaced. The attacks could unravel negotiations and further destabilize the region, with observers noting Israeli political motivations ahead of the October 27 election.