Israeli Forces Strike Southern Lebanon
On Thursday, September 18, 2025, Israeli forces launched a series of airstrikes targeting sites associated with Hezbollah's elite Radwan Force in southern Lebanon. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed the operations, stating they were conducted in response to Hezbollah's 'prohibited attempts to rebuild its activities in the area'.
The strikes impacted at least five towns in southern Lebanon, including Burj Qalaouiyah, Al-Shahabiya, Mays al Jabal (also known as Mais al-Jabal), Dibbine (also known as Debbin), and Kfar Tebnit. Lebanese state media reported that one person was injured in Mays al Jabal, and a Lebanese military intelligence source indicated that eight houses were completely destroyed and dozens more damaged across the targeted areas.
Lebanese Leadership Condemns Attacks
Following the Israeli operations, Lebanon's Prime Minister Nawaf Salam issued a strong condemnation of the airstrikes. Prime Minister Salam, who officially assumed his duties on February 8, 2025, questioned Israel's commitment to halting hostilities and adherence to UN Security Council Resolution 1701 and the existing ceasefire agreement. He called upon the international community to exert 'maximum pressure' on Israel to cease its aggressions. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun also condemned the attacks, criticizing the 'silence of the countries who had sponsored' the ceasefire, which he suggested 'encourages further aggression'.
The Lebanese army reported that Israeli violations have exceeded 4,500 since the 2024 ceasefire agreement and warned that these strikes hinder its deployment in the south and could obstruct its plan to disarm Hezbollah south of the Litani River.
Context of Ongoing Tensions and the Radwan Force
These latest strikes occur despite a ceasefire agreement signed on November 27, 2024, which brought an end to over a year of hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah. The broader conflict between the two entities began on October 8, 2023, a day after Hamas launched its attacks on Israel.
The targeted Radwan Force is an elite special operations unit within Hezbollah, established after the 2006 Lebanon War and renamed in 2008. Its primary mission involves offensive attacks into Israeli territory, particularly the Galilee region. Comprising highly trained fighters, some of whom receive advanced training in Iran, the Radwan Force is equipped with advanced weaponry, including anti-tank missiles, drones, and sniper rifles. Israeli officials consider the Radwan Force a significant threat due to its offensive capabilities and potential for surprise attacks. Hezbollah has reportedly rejected Beirut's plan to disarm the group in border areas.
5 Comments
Habibi
While Israel has legitimate security concerns regarding the Radwan Force, striking civilian areas and causing damage undermines any peace efforts. A more targeted approach is needed to avoid escalation.
Leonardo
This is a blatant act of aggression! Israel constantly violates Lebanese sovereignty.
Michelangelo
Finally, some strong action against those who break peace agreements. Well done, IDF.
Africa
Targeting the Radwan Force is a necessary measure. They are a clear and present danger.
Bermudez
The Lebanese government's struggle to disarm Hezbollah is a key issue, but Israeli airstrikes only weaken Beirut's authority further. This cycle of violence benefits no one and only entrenches extremism.