AA / Istanbul / Lina Altawell

The chief of the Israeli military, Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir, stated on Friday that Israeli forces remained in a “state of war” in southern Lebanon and were not observing a ceasefire on the northern front, according to a military statement.

“The army continues to operate here in Lebanon,” he declared during a visit to areas near Bint Jbeil in the southern part of the country, where he met with commanders on the ground.

He added that the army “is in a state of war” and “is not in a ceasefire situation on the northern front.”

“In Iran, we are in a ceasefire, but we can resume operations at any time, and with great intensity,” he continued.

These statements come as the Israeli army has been expanding its offensive in Lebanon since Wednesday, resulting in over 303 deaths and 1,150 injuries, according to the Lebanese Civil Defense.

This offensive continues despite a two-week ceasefire announced on Tuesday, as part of efforts to reach a broader agreement to end the conflict that began on February 28 by Israel and the United States against Iran, resulting in thousands of deaths and injuries.

While Pakistan – which contributed to the mediation – and Iran claim the ceasefire includes Lebanon, the United States and Israel dispute this interpretation.

Translated from English by Wafae El Baghouani