Israeli warplanes violate Lebanese airspace amid stalled withdrawal

Israeli fighter jets shattered the sound barrier over Beirut and its southern suburbs, the first such provocation since the 27 November ceasefire with Hezbollah.

The escalation comes as Israel continues to delay its withdrawal from southern Lebanon despite an 18 February deadline. Lebanese officials have dismissed claims of any agreement to extend Israel’s presence.

According to Lebanon’s state-run National News Agency, Israeli aircraft flew at low altitude over the capital, the Matn district, and parts of the Bekaa region.

Lebanon has documented nearly 900 Israeli ceasefire violations since 27 November, resulting in dozens of civilian casualties, including women and children.