Emerging
Published Jun 18, 2026Updated Jun 191
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Israel Launches Fresh Strikes on Southern Lebanon Amid US-Iran Deal and Trump Criticism
Israel launched new airstrikes in southern Lebanon on June 17, despite criticism from former President Trump and the signing of a U.S.-Iran agreement that includes a Lebanese ceasefire. Hezbollah continued attacks, wounding five Israeli soldiers, and Iran threatened retaliation. The conflict, which began March 2 after Hezbollah rockets and Iranian retaliation, has killed over 3,800 in Lebanon and 34 in Israel.
Quick Facts
- Israeli airstrikes on southern Lebanon
- Drone and fighter jet attacks
- Hezbollah drone attack wounds Israeli soldiers
- US-Iran agreement signed
- Trump criticizes Israel
Israel carried out further airstrikes in southern Lebanon on June 17, targeting areas near Mansouri, Ajieh, Nabatieh al-Fawqa, and Kfar Tebnit, according to Lebanese state media. The attacks involved drone strikes and fighter jet bombings, resulting in several injuries. The operation occurred despite renewed criticism from former U.S. President Donald Trump and just one day after a U.S.-Iran agreement to end hostilities was signed, which includes a ceasefire in Lebanon.
Israeli forces confirmed that five of its soldiers operating in Lebanon were wounded by a drone attack attributed to Hezbollah, the Iran-backed Shia militant group. Hezbollah has been exchanging fire with Israeli forces since March 2, when it launched rockets into Israel in retaliation for the killing of Iran's Supreme Leader on the first day of the broader Israel-U.S.-Iran war.
The U.S. and Iran signed a war-ending agreement on June 17 that includes a cessation of hostilities in Lebanon. However, both Israel and Hezbollah have continued attacks since the deal was announced on June 14. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated on June 15 that Israeli forces would remain in Lebanon "as long as necessary."
On June 16, after Lebanese media reported four deaths from Israeli strikes, Iran's Supreme Military Command warned Israel of "severe retaliation" if "malicious acts" in southern Lebanon did not cease. Hezbollah leader Sheikh Naim Kassem declared the U.S.-Iran agreement a "great victory" in a televised speech on June 17, calling on the Lebanese government to capitalize on the moment.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, meanwhile, stated that Lebanon is pursuing an "independent path" in negotiations with Israel in Washington and welcomed support from any country, including Iran, for a ceasefire. The Lebanese Health Ministry reports over 3,800 people killed in the conflict, without distinguishing between combatants and civilians. Israeli authorities report 30 soldiers and 4 civilians killed on both sides of the border.
Why This Matters
This escalation shows that the U.S.-Iran agreement, despite its promise of a Lebanese ceasefire, has not halted immediate hostilities. Readers should monitor the fragile diplomatic situation: if Israel and Hezbollah continue fighting despite a signed deal, the regional war may expand, with direct implications for oil prices, global markets, and potential U.S. military involvement. The involvement of former President Trump’s criticism adds a domestic political angle to foreign policy decisions.
Timeline & Sources
Mar 2, 2026
WireHezbollah launches rockets at Israel in retaliation for killing of Iran's Supreme Leader
Jun 14, 2026
WireUS and Iran announce war-ending agreement including ceasefire in Lebanon
Jun 15, 2026
WireNetanyahu says Israeli forces will remain in Lebanon 'as long as necessary'
Jun 16, 2026
WireIsraeli airstrikes kill four in Lebanon; Iran warns of 'severe retaliation'
Jun 17, 2026
WireIsrael launches fresh airstrikes in southern Lebanon; US-Iran deal signed; Hezbollah leader praises deal