Israel attacks Lebanon despite being included in potential peace deal

Israel launched airstrikes on southern Lebanon on March 15, 2024, targeting Hezbollah infrastructure. This action occurred despite Iran's statement on March 14, 2024, indicating its inclusion in a potential memorandum of understanding aimed at de-escalating regional tensions. The strikes reportedly destroyed several Hezbollah observation posts and weapons caches. Lebanese state media reported civilian casualties, though specific numbers were not immediately available. The Israeli military stated the strikes were in response to cross-border rocket fire originating from Lebanon earlier that day. This exchange marks a continuation of hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah, which have been ongoing since October 2023, following the Hamas attack on Israel. The proposed memorandum of understanding, brokered by a third-party nation, aimed to establish a ceasefire and facilitate prisoner exchanges, but its efficacy is now questioned by these renewed hostilities.