Israeli airstrikes kill seven in Lebanon amid escalating conflict

Israeli air strikes in southern Lebanon on March 22, 2025, resulted in the deaths of at least seven individuals, including a child, amid escalating tensions following rocket fire from Lebanon into Israel. This marked the most significant violation of a fragile ceasefire established in November after over a year of conflict. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) claimed that the strikes targeted Hezbollah command centers and infrastructure in response to six rockets launched from Lebanon, three of which were intercepted. Hezbollah denied responsibility for the rocket attack and condemned Israel's actions as pretexts for continued aggression. Lebanese officials expressed concerns that this renewed violence could lead to a new war, urging international pressure on Israel to cease its military operations. Injuries were reported among at least 40 others, highlighting the severe impact of the air strikes on civilians.