Israel Conducts Artillery Shelling in Southern Lebanon Prior to Colonna’s Scheduled Visit

On Monday, Israeli artillery launched attacks on the outskirts of several southern Lebanese border towns, including al-Naqoura, Aitaroun, al-Jebbayn, Dhaira, Yaroun, and Blida. Additionally, a drone strike targeted a building close to the funeral of a Hezbollah fighter in Aita al-Shaab.

In response, Hezbollah targeted soldiers at the al-Hamra post. There have been regular exchanges of fire between Israel and Hezbollah along the border since the onset of the war. Other militant groups supported by Iran have also been attacking U.S. targets in Syria and Iraq. The Houthi rebels in Yemen, aligned with Iran, have launched attacks on ships in the Red Sea using missiles and drones, framing these actions as part of a blockade against Israel.

French Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna is scheduled to visit Lebanon on Monday, following her meeting with Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen in Tel Aviv on Sunday. Cohen stated that Israel does not plan to open another front on its northern border and highlighted the potential role of France in preventing a full-scale war.

Israeli military spokesperson Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari expressed concern that Hezbollah is leading Lebanon towards an unnecessary war with potentially catastrophic outcomes. This situation echoes the destructive month-long war fought between the sides in 2006.

U.S. defense leaders are actively working to avert the possibility of a broader regional conflict. Their strategy includes maintaining a strong U.S. military presence in the region and advising Israel to moderate its military operations.