Three Lebanese soldiers were killed and two wounded in an Israeli airstrike in Nabatieh, southern Lebanon, the Lebanese army said. The attack occurred amid escalating Israeli operations targeting Hezbollah, part of the broader conflict involving Iran. The incident highlights rising casualties and humanitarian strain in Lebanon, where more than 880 people have died and over a million have been displaced.
The soldiers were hit while travelling by car and motorcycle and were taken to hospital for treatment, according to an army statement. Israel acknowledged reports of the casualties but said the strike targeted , not the Lebanese Armed Forces, and the incident is under review.
Read more: Death toll in Lebanon from Israeli strikes rises to 886
Israeli forces have intensified attacks across southern Lebanon following rocket fire from Hezbollah on March 2. Additional troops were deployed to enforce control over positions held since a November 2024 ceasefire. Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz warned Lebanon of possible territorial losses unless Hezbollah disarms.
The Lebanese army has reported multiple casualties in recent strikes, including three soldiers killed earlier this month. Civilians have also suffered heavily as the conflict escalates, with thousands displaced and significant damage to infrastructure, deepening the humanitarian crisis in the region.
Read more: Israeli attacks in Lebanon kill 886
The broader conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, backed by Iran, continues to escalate despite ceasefire attempts. Analysts warn that without urgent de-escalation, civilian casualties and regional instability are likely to worsen in the coming weeks.