Israel Kills 12 in Lebanon Car Strikes Ahead of US-Brokered Talks

Israel intensified airstrikes on Lebanon on May 13, 2026, killing at least 12 people in attacks targeting vehicles, primarily south of Beirut. The strikes occurred just one day before scheduled US-brokered negotiations between Lebanon and Israel in Washington, despite an existing ceasefire agreement. Lebanon's Health Ministry reported that eight people, including two children, died in three separate strikes on cars along the coastal highway near Jiyeh, while additional fatalities were recorded in Sidon and the Tyre district. Since the truce began in mid-April, over 400 people have been killed in Lebanon, and more than 10,000 homes have been damaged or destroyed, according to local officials. Israel stated it targeted Hezbollah infrastructure and weapon storage sites, asserting its right to act against imminent threats under ceasefire terms. Meanwhile, Hezbollah claimed to have ambushed Israeli troops and launched drone attacks. The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) expressed growing concern over increased military activities and drone usage near its positions, which endanger peacekeepers. These escalations highlight the fragility of the current truce as diplomatic efforts continue.