BEIRUT — The death toll from the Israeli aggression on Lebanon since March 2 has risen to 4,297, with 12,196 others wounded, according to Lebanon’s Ministry of Public Health. In a statement issued on Wednesday, the ministry’s Emergency Operations Center said the cumulative toll from the Israeli offensive since March 2 had reached 4,297 fatalities and 12,196 injuries.
US-Brokered Framework Agreement
Lebanon and the Israeli entity previously signed a US-brokered framework agreement that includes security arrangements, the redeployment of the Lebanese Armed Forces, measures to rebuild war-affected areas and revive Lebanon’s economy, the establishment of direct communication channels between the two sides, and confidence-building measures aimed at paving the way for a lasting peace.
Israel Vows Indefinite Presence in Security Zones
Israel’s defense minister said Wednesday that Israeli forces would remain in self-proclaimed “security zones” established in Lebanon, Syria and Gaza, without any timeline for withdrawal. “The IDF will remain in the security zones in Lebanon, Syria and Gaza indefinitely in order to protect our residents and communities from jihadist elements,” Israel Katz said. “We will not withdraw from the security zones,” Katz said at a function held in honor of Israeli soldiers killed during the 2006 war in Lebanon.
Warning to Iran
Katz also reiterated an earlier warning to Iran, saying the Islamic republic would be struck with “full force” if it attacked Israel over its operations in Lebanon.
Framework Agreement Signed Under US Sponsorship
Israel and Lebanon signed a US-sponsored framework agreement under US sponsorship on Friday to pave the way for peace between the two countries and disarm Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah. Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, have repeatedly ruled out withdrawing troops from southern Lebanon, where Israeli forces continue to clash with Hezbollah fighters.
