BEIRUT/JERUSALEM - Israeli warplanes carried out a series of intense airstrikes on Thursday on the outskirts of the city of Nabatieh in southern Lebanon, according to official and security sources.

Israeli warplanes conducted two waves of violent strikes targeting valleys, highlands, and wooded areas between the village of Kfar Tebnit, Upper Nabatieh, and the city of Kfar Remen, said the official Lebanese National News Agency (NNA).

A Lebanese security source told Xinhua that Israeli warplanes carried out around 15 airstrikes in the vicinity of Nabatieh, launching approximately 30 air-to-ground missiles.

"The panic led to heavy traffic congestion, with dozens of ambulances heading toward the targeted areas. Most government offices closed their doors," said the NNA.

The Israeli army confirmed the strike in a statement, saying it targeted a military infrastructure site in the area of the Beaufort Ridge in southern Lebanon, which it said was used by Hezbollah to "manage its fire and defense array."

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The strike destroyed the site as well as weapons and tunnel shafts, the military said.

Although a ceasefire agreement between Hezbollah and Israel has been in place since Nov. 27, 2024, the Israeli military continues to conduct occasional strikes in southern Lebanon, citing the need to counter ongoing Hezbollah threats.