Israeli strikes in south Lebanon kill 18 as Hezbollah kills 4 troops
Why it matters: The clashes deepen strain on a US-Iran deal meant to halt fighting in Lebanon and could prolong Israel's military presence there.
Israeli airstrikes and shelling across southern Lebanon killed at least 18 people overnight in the Nabatieh district, Lebanese authorities said, while Israel said four of its soldiers were killed in fighting with Hezbollah. The Israeli military said it hit Hezbollah militants and infrastructure after what it called repeated ceasefire violations. Hezbollah said it ambushed Israeli forces in southern Lebanon, destroying three tanks with guided missiles and firing rockets and artillery. The escalation came a day after the United States and Iran signed an agreement intended to end hostilities across the region, including in Lebanon. Israel has said it will keep forces in southern Lebanon despite the deal, fueling doubts about whether the truce can hold.