Lebanese Pres. slams Israeli occupation strikes on southern, eastern towns

BEIRUT, Jan 6 (KUNA) -- Lebanese President Joseph Aoun condemned on Tuesday Israeli occupation attacks over the past hours on towns in southern and eastern Lebanon.
In a statement, Aoun said the strikes raise questions because they came on the eve of a meeting of the ceasefire monitoring mechanism committee, which is supposed to work to halt hostilities and discuss practical steps to restore security and stability in the south.
He said the Israeli occupation's continued attacks aim to derail local, regional, and international efforts to stop the escalation, despite Lebanon's cooperation and government measures - implemented by the Lebanese army - to extend state authority south of the Litani River.
Aoun urged the international community to intervene effectively to stop the attacks and enable the committee to carry out its tasks with the support of the parties concerned and international backing.
The committee includes representatives of the United States (chair), France, United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), and the Lebanese and Israeli sides, and was formed after the ceasefire agreement that took effect on November 27,2024.
Lebanon has seen a wave of Israeli occupation airstrikes in recent hours, including on Al-Manara in the eastern Beqaa and several southern towns.
The latest strike at dawn hit a three-story building in an industrial area in Sidon city, injuring one person.
Israeli occupation forces have continued to target towns, cars, and motorcycles in southern Lebanon despite the ceasefire agreement. (end) ayb.fs.lr