Lebanon’s army tells soldiers to act after post comes under Israeli fire
Al Jazeera
February 24, 2026
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Lebanon’s army reported that Israeli forces carried out an attack near a newly constructed observation post in the Marjayoun area, prompting Lebanese soldiers to respond with fire. The incident occurred on Tuesday as an Israeli drone flew low-altitude missions over the area, issuing threats aimed at intimidating Lebanese personnel. In response, Lebanon’s military command ordered its troops to reinforce the post, remain stationed there, and return fire. While no immediate details were provided about how the attack unfolded, the exchange underscored the ongoing tensions between Israel and Lebanon, particularly in the southern border region.
The conflict is part of a broader cycle of violence that has persisted despite a ceasefire agreement brokered in November 2024. This deal was intended to halt hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah, a Lebanese Shiite militant group aligned with Iran. However, Israel continues to conduct regular airstrikes in southern Lebanon, targeting both Hezbollah positions and other military installations. These actions have drawn criticism from international bodies, including the United Nations, which reported that at least 127 civilians were killed in Israeli attacks after the ceasefire took effect.
Lebanon’s government has been working to disarm Hezbollah since last year, with the army tasked with dismantling its facilities and weapons caches. While progress has been made, Israel remains dissatisfied, describing these efforts as insufficient. The situation is further complicated by the potential escalation of US-Iran tensions, which could draw Lebanon into a larger regional conflict. Lebanese Foreign Minister Youssef Raggi warned that any confrontation between the US and Iran could lead to intense Israeli strikes in Lebanon, potentially targeting civilian infrastructure like airports.
Amid these risks, the United States has taken precautionary measures, ordering non-essential personnel at its embassy in Beirut to depart. The White House has emphasized a preference for diplomatic engagement with Iran but has not ruled out military action if necessary. Meanwhile, Hezbollah has vowed to continue its resistance against Israel,
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Originally published on Al Jazeera on 2/24/2026