Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam has warned that Lebanon is facing a “dangerous and unprecedented” Israeli escalation, urging an immediate ceasefire and saying a “scorched-earth policy” would not bring security to Israel. In a televised address, Salam defended his government’s direct negotiations with Israel, describing them as the “least costly path” for Lebanon amid growing tensions along the southern border.
His remarks came on Saturday as Israeli military operations intensified in southern Lebanon, with Lebanese military sources reporting that Israeli forces advanced into villages north of the Litani River and reached the outskirts of Nabatieh city.
The renewed military activity comes despite a US-mediated ceasefire that took effect on April 17 and was later extended for 45 days beginning May 17 following indirect talks.
Lebanese officials have repeatedly accused Israel of violating the truce through air strikes, artillery shelling and ground incursions.
