Lebanon official media report Israeli drone strike in south

An Israeli drone struck southern Lebanon near the town of Ainata on Saturday, according to Lebanon’s state-run National News Agency (NNA). No casualties were reported.

"Drones and surveillance aircraft are still flying over the area at low altitude," the NNA said.

The strike comes just days before the February 18 deadline of a fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, which began on November 27 after over a year of hostilities, including a two-month war.

The agreement, mediated by the U.S. and France, called for the Israeli army to withdraw from Lebanese territory over a 60-day period and for Hezbollah to vacate its positions near the border. The deadline was later extended.

Both sides have accused each other of violations. On Thursday, the Israeli military said it had carried out airstrikes on Hezbollah sites containing weapons and launchers.

A senior Israeli security official confirmed Israel’s intention to withdraw by February 18 but noted ongoing preparations. However, Lebanese parliamentary speaker Nabih Berri said the U.S. informed him Israel planned to remain in five locations—a move Beirut rejected.

Tensions remain high as the ceasefire deadline approaches.