Far-right Israeli minister urges ending Lebanon ceasefire after troops hurt

Israel's far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir called for ending the ceasefire in Lebanon after four Israeli troops were wounded in southern Lebanon. "There are soldiers who have been injured. We can strike and bomb hundreds of targets," Ben-Gvir said, referring to a Thursday incident in which four Israeli soldiers were wounded. During a security cabinet meeting, he described the incident as "an opportunity for the agreement to collapse."

Divisions and US pressure

Although Ben-Gvir's position did not appear to gain support, other ministers reportedly voiced frustration over operational restrictions imposed on Israeli forces under the ceasefire arrangements. The remarks came amid media reports of US pressure on Israel to avoid escalation while negotiations continue in Washington. Prime Minister Netanyahu told ministers that the US "understands Israel's right to defend itself," adding that "every immediate threat is dealt with by the soldiers on the ground, and we are not imposing any restrictions."

Casualties and context

Earlier Friday, the Israeli army said an officer was moderately wounded and three others sustained light injuries after a Hezbollah gunman threw a grenade at an Israeli force near Beit Yahoun. The assailant was subsequently killed. Israeli media have reported growing US pressure on Israel following the US-Iran understanding. The fifth round of Lebanon-Israel talks in Washington was extended by one day. Since March 2, Israeli attacks in Lebanon have killed 4,230 people and injured 12,179, displacing more than 1 million.