Lebanese authorities report dozens have died following an incursion by Israeli commandos into a border region, reportedly in search of the remains of a long-missing airman.
Israeli Operation in Lebanon
On Friday night, four Israeli helicopters crossed into Lebanese airspace and flew to a border area between Lebanon and Syria, according to a statement from the Lebanese army. Two helicopters subsequently landed amid “intense and widespread” shelling of the area, targeting nearby villages, the statement added.
As Israeli forces approached the village of Nabi Chit, the Lebanese army reported a firefight between the commandos and Hezbollah militants and local residents. Hezbollah stated in a communique that its fighters fired upon the “enemy infantry force” with “light and medium weapons.” The Lebanese Ministry of Health reported that the incursion and Israeli strikes resulted in 41 deaths and 40 injuries.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) stated in a communique that no soldiers were harmed during the operation.
The IDF was searching for the remains of navigator Ron Arad, who has been missing since 1986 after being forced to eject from his F-4 fighter jet. The commando raid was based on intelligence obtained from Ahmad Shuker, a Lebanese security officer who, reports indicate, was abducted in December, according to an Israeli source.
However, forces on the ground did not locate Arad’s remains.
Tami Arad, Ron Arad’s widow, thanked the government for the effort but urged Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu not to do anything that endangers soldiers. “For us, the sanctity of life is a priority over the commitment to return a soldier’s remains for burial,” she stated on Facebook.
The raid occurred amid intense Israeli attacks against the militant group Hezbollah, launched following a recent conflict with Iran.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the purpose of the Israeli incursion?
The IDF stated the purpose of the incursion was to search for the remains of Ron Arad, an Israeli airman who has been missing since 1986.
What did Hezbollah report regarding the incident?
Hezbollah stated its fighters fired upon the “enemy infantry force” with “light and medium weapons.”
What was the reported casualty count?
The Lebanese Ministry of Health reported 41 deaths and 40 injuries as a result of the incursion and Israeli strikes.
Given the ongoing tensions between Israel and Hezbollah, what impact might this operation have on regional stability?
Related reading