Israel pursuing ‘scorched earth’ policy, says Lebanon PM, as more airstrikes hit country’s south Lebanon’s Prime Minister Nawaf Salam accused Israel of a “scorched-earth policy” and “collective punishment” in southern Lebanon, warning of a dangerous escalation and calling for a ceasefire. He defended ongoing US-brokered security talks as the “least costly path” despite a truce being in effect since April 17, which has been repeatedly violated by both sides. Fresh Israeli airstrikes and evacuation warnings have been issued for numerous locations, while Hezbollah also reported launching attacks targeting northern Israel and engaging Israeli forces.

• Lebanese PM Nawaf Salam accused Israel of a ‘scorched-earth policy’ and ‘collective punishment’ in the country’s south.
• Salam urged a halt to fighting and a “swift and real ceasefire” amidst escalating Israeli airstrikes and evacuation warnings.
• Despite accusations, Lebanon is engaged in US-brokered security talks with Israel, with more negotiations planned.
• A truce officially took effect on April 17 but has not been observed, with both Israel and Hezbollah accusing each other of violations.
• Lebanon’s state-run NNA reported Israeli attacks, and the Lebanese military stated two soldiers were wounded by an Israeli drone.
• Hezbollah reported launching multiple attacks targeting northern Israel and clashing with Israeli soldiers in southern Lebanon.
• Israeli forces have advanced beyond the Litani River, “hitting Hezbollah head on,” according to PM Netanyahu.
• The Lebanese health ministry reports over 3,371 deaths since March 2 due to Israeli attacks.