Israeli operations cause further human loss, deepen humanitarian crisis

Israeli operations cause further human loss, deepen humanitarian crisis
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Israeli military actions and security measures across the region drew renewed attention on Sunday, as incidents in southern Lebanon, southern Israel and Gaza highlighted continuing tensions despite ceasefire and aid frameworks.

In Lebanon, authorities said an Israeli strike in the country’s south killed two people, while Israel said it had targeted a Hezbollah operative. Lebanon’s health ministry reported that an “Israeli enemy strike” hit a vehicle near the town of Jmaijmeh, about 10 kilometers from the border. The Israeli military said the strike was carried out in response to what it described as Hezbollah violations of ceasefire understandings.

Although a ceasefire ending more than a year of hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah took effect in November 2024, Israel continues to conduct regular strikes in Lebanon and maintains troops in five areas it considers strategic. According to an AFP tally, at least 350 people have been killed by Israeli fire in Lebanon since the ceasefire.

Inside Israel, police shot and killed a 36-year-old Bedouin Arab man, Muhammed Hussein Tarabin, during an overnight raid in his village in the Negev. Police said the man endangered officers during an arrest operation, while relatives said he was inside his home. The incident came amid a large-scale police crackdown on crime in Bedouin communities, backed by National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir.

Meanwhile, Israel began revoking the operating licenses of 37 international organizations providing humanitarian aid to Gaza, saying they failed to meet new registration requirements. Aid groups and Israeli media have questioned the decision, noting previous similar measures against UNRWA and warning of potential political motivations.

Israel previously took similar steps against the UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA). In 2024, the Knesset passed legislation banning the UN agency’s activities in Israel, citing allegations that some UNRWA employees were involved in the Oct. 7, 2023, events, claims the agency has denied. The UN has said UNRWA adheres to strict neutrality standards.