President Aoun denounces Israeli airstrikes in Beirut suburbs as a violation of international law; Lebanon files UN complaint amid rising border tensions and ceasefire breaches.

Lebanese President Condemns Israeli Airstrikes on Beirut Suburbs as Ceasefire Tensions Escalate
Beirut, Lebanon – Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has issued a strong condemnation of Israeli airstrikes that targeted the southern suburbs of Beirut on Thursday, calling the attacks a “blatant violation” of international law and a direct threat to regional peace. The strikes occurred just hours before the Muslim holiday of Eid al-Adha, further inflaming tensions.

Details of the Airstrikes
The assault reportedly involved eight Israeli warplanes and several drone strikes, hitting multiple locations in the Dahieh district, a known Hezbollah stronghold. This marks the fourth major violation of the ceasefire agreement brokered in November 2024. The strikes caused widespread destruction and have raised fears of renewed conflict along the Lebanese-Israeli border.

Political Response
In a formal statement, President Aoun described the airstrikes as an “intentional act of aggression” against Lebanon’s sovereignty and a rejection of diplomatic and humanitarian norms, especially given the timing on the eve of a major religious holiday. Prime Minister Najib Mikati and Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri joined the president in condemning the attacks. Both leaders accused the Israeli government of deliberately attempting to destabilize Lebanon and undermine the fragile truce.

Ceasefire Violations and Regional Tensions
According to the Lebanese Armed Forces and UN peacekeeping observers, nearly 3,000 violations of the ceasefire have been recorded since its implementation in November 2024, following a spike in cross-border hostilities.

The renewed strikes have intensified border tensions, with residents in southern Lebanon reporting increased drone activity and artillery shelling in recent weeks.

Although Hezbollah has not officially responded to the latest incident, the group has previously warned that continued Israeli violations would provoke retaliatory action.

International Reaction and UN Involvement
Lebanon has formally lodged a complaint with the United Nations Security Council, calling for urgent intervention to prevent further escalation and to reaffirm the terms of the ceasefire.

The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) confirmed it is investigating the strikes and has appealed to both sides to exercise restraint.

Impact on Lebanon’s Domestic Situation
The airstrikes come at a time when Lebanon is grappling with a deep economic crisis, political paralysis, and a growing humanitarian emergency. The government reiterated its commitment to peace, but emphasized its right to defend national sovereignty if provoked.