Israeli Soldiers Killed in Lebanon; Drones Over Beirut

Israeli forces resumed military operations in southern Lebanon on Thursday, allegedly against Hezbollah, following the deaths of two Israeli soldiers.

These are the first Israeli deaths since a June truce with the group. Israeli drones have been sighted over Beirut and its suburbs, according to Lebanese national media. The Israeli military also bombed Wadi Houjeir and Meiss el-Jabal in south Lebanon, and reports indicate the Chacra water pumping station was set on fire by Israel.

Negotiations between Lebanon and Israel in Rome concluded with little progress on a ceasefire or Israeli withdrawal from Lebanese territory. Israel's stated priority is the disarmament of Hezbollah. Oded Eilam, a former Mossad official, advised striking Hezbollah activity in southern Lebanon without restrictions but cautioned against a return to all-out war. Lebanese media reported Israeli artillery shelling on the town of Hadatha in the Bint Jbeil district.

Talks in Rome between Israel and Lebanon for a framework agreement have wrapped up amid escalating Israeli attacks on Lebanon. Beirut failed to secure a genuine ceasefire or progress on Israeli withdrawal. Lebanese national media reported Israeli drones flying above Beirut and its suburbs. The Israeli army fired artillery shells on Hadatha. The Chacra water pumping station was reportedly set on fire by Israel.

The 'axis of resistance' has regrouped around Iraqi militias and Houthi fighters, according to reporting on Iran's network of allies. Israel continues operations in Lebanon after minimal progress in Rome talks.