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Lebanon PM Slams Rocket Attacks as "Irresponsible," Warns of Security Danger

Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam has strongly condemned the launching of rockets from southern Lebanon, calling it an irresponsible act that endangers national security and provides Israel with pretexts for further attacks. The condemnation follows a series of rocket attacks by Hezbollah, launched in retaliation for the killing of Iran's Supreme Leader. Israel responded with airstrikes on Hezbollah-controlled areas in Lebanon, though initial reports indicate no serious casualties. This exchange marks a significant escalation, threatening a fragile ceasefire that has been in place since November 2024.

Key Points: Lebanon PM Condemns Rocket Attacks, Warns of Israeli Pretext

  • PM condemns rocket launches from south Lebanon
  • Hezbollah attacks Israel after Iranian leader's death
  • Israel retaliates with airstrikes on Lebanon
  • Fragile 2024 ceasefire now under threat
2 min read

Irresponsible act, endangers security: Lebanese PM after Hezbollah strikes on Israel

Lebanese PM Nawaf Salam condemns rocket launches from south as irresponsible acts endangering security and giving Israel pretext for attacks.

"an irresponsible and suspicious act that endangers Lebanon's security - PM Nawaf Salam"

Beirut, March 2

Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam on Monday said that those launching rockets from the southern part of the nation are endangering the security and safety of the citizens and giving Israel reasons to continue with its attack.

This came as militant organisation Hezbollah launched a series of rocket attacks towards Israel from Lebanon in retaliation for the killing of Iran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. This is also the first time the militant group has attacked Israel since the ceasefire agreement came into force in November 2024.

In a post on X, Salam, without naming Hezbollah, said, "Regardless of the party standing behind it, the launching of rockets from southern Lebanon is an irresponsible and suspicious act that endangers Lebanon's security and safety and provides Israel with pretexts to continue its attacks on it."

"We will not allow the country to be dragged into new adventures, and we will take all necessary measures to stop the perpetrators and protect the Lebanese," he added.

Following the rocket attacks, Israel carried out airstrikes on the Hezbollah-controlled areas of Lebanon. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced that it had begun striking the militant targets across Lebanon ​and held Hezbollah responsible.

One rocket was intercepted by air defences while the others fell in open areas, the military said in a statement. The launches triggered air raid sirens across northern Israel.

Israel's Magen David Adom rescue service said there were no immediate reports of casualties from the strikes, though several people sustained minor injuries while running to shelters.

Fire from Lebanon has been rare since a fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah came into effect in November 2024. Israel has continued to carry out frequent airstrikes in southern and eastern Lebanon, claiming they are aimed at thwarting "threats."

The rocket fire followed a formal eulogy from Hezbollah on Sunday, in which the group's chief, Naim Qassem, described the Israeli assassination of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei as "the height of crime."

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
It's a complex situation, but launching rockets from civilian areas is never justified. It puts innocent lives at risk. The Lebanese government must assert its authority. Stability in the region is crucial for everyone.
A
Aman W
Watching from India, this feels like a dangerous escalation. Hezbollah breaking the ceasefire over an event in Iran drags Lebanon into a wider conflict. Ordinary citizens always pay the price. Hope cooler heads prevail.
S
Sarah B
While I understand the anger over the assassination, retaliatory strikes that endanger your own population are counterproductive. The PM's statement is a rare voice of reason. Sovereignty means the state must control its territory.
V
Vikram M
This is why strong, sovereign governments are essential. Militant groups operating independently undermine the state and invite foreign intervention. Lebanon deserves peace and stability, not being used as a pawn.
K
Karthik V
Respectfully, while the PM's words are strong, the question is whether his government has the power to actually "take all necessary measures." The real test is action on the ground. Wishing safety for all civilians caught in the middle.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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