Beirut, 25 June (H.S.): Tensions along the Israel-Lebanon border escalated once again on Wednesday after an Israeli drone strike in southern Lebanon killed two people, prompting Hezbollah to accuse Israel of violating the existing ceasefire arrangement between the two sides.

According to Lebanese state media, the strike targeted a vehicle near the town of Kfar Rumman in southern Lebanon, resulting in the deaths of two individuals. The incident occurred amid continued regional instability despite ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing tensions in the Middle East.

The Israeli military said the operation targeted individuals it identified as armed Hezbollah members who were allegedly posing an immediate security threat near the Ali al-Taher Ridge area, close to the city of Nabatieh. Israeli authorities stated that their forces would continue to act against threats to national security.

Hezbollah strongly condemned the strike, describing it as a clear breach of the ceasefire. In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Iran-backed group claimed that the victims were civilians inspecting their homes and accused Israel of deliberately targeting Lebanese citizens. Hezbollah said it was documenting what it described as repeated violations and reaffirmed its commitment to the ceasefire agreement.

The latest incident came less than 48 hours after another deadly episode in southern Lebanon, where two people were reportedly killed by Israeli gunfire. The back-to-back incidents have heightened concerns about the durability of the truce and the risk of renewed hostilities.

The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah intensified earlier this year after Hezbollah launched attacks in support of Iran following the killing of Iran's Supreme Leader in joint US-Israeli strikes. The subsequent exchange of attacks led to significant casualties and widespread destruction, particularly in southern Lebanon.

Despite a recent decline in violence, Israeli officials have indicated that military operations in parts of southern Lebanon will continue. Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz reiterated on Wednesday that Israeli forces have no immediate plans to withdraw from the area, stressing that current security considerations remain unchanged.

Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts to prevent further escalation continue. Earlier this week, mediators involved in regional negotiations announced plans to establish a de-confliction mechanism intended to reduce the risk of clashes in Lebanon while broader discussions concerning regional security and stability proceed.

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun said on Wednesday that ongoing discussions involving Lebanon and Israel remain separate from wider negotiations concerning relations between the United States and Iran.

Observers say the latest strike underscores the fragile nature of the ceasefire and highlights the challenges facing diplomatic initiatives aimed at preventing a broader regional confrontation.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar