Israeli forces conducted a targeted operation in southern Lebanon early Monday, seizing a local official from the Sunni Islamist group al-Jamaa al-Islamiya who has ties to Hamas. The operation took place in Hebbarieh, near the Israeli border, with the official taken to Israel for questioning. The Islamic Group condemned the seizure as another violation of Lebanon's sovereignty.

Later the same day, an Israeli drone strike killed three people, including a 3-year-old child, in the village of Yanouh. The Israeli military claimed it targeted Hezbollah artillery official Ahmad Salami, acknowledging civilian casualties claims are under review. This follows the 14-month conflict between Israel and Hezbollah that ended with a U.S.-brokered ceasefire in 2024.

Since the ceasefire, Israel has conducted almost daily airstrikes and ground incursions into Lebanon, resulting in over 100 civilian deaths according to UN reports. The operations aim to eliminate Hezbollah strongholds and security threats along the border. The recent escalation highlights the fragile security situation in southern Lebanon, where multiple armed groups operate and tensions remain high between Israel and various militant organizations.

Quick Fact: The Israel-Hezbollah war killed more than 4,000 people in Lebanon and caused an estimated $11 billion in damage.