The attack took place in the town of Deir al-Zahrani in the Nabatieh district of southern Lebanon. Another 19 people, including five children, were injured.
The reports came late Sunday evening after the Israeli military advanced further into Lebanon. Among other things, the military captured the medieval Beaufort Castle, which has great cultural and historical value.
On Sunday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the country's takeover of the area marks a dramatic shift in Israel's efforts against the Shiite militia Hezbollah in Lebanon.
Crossed the river
Israeli forces had already crossed the Litani River, the informal border for Israeli forces in southern Lebanon. The stated goal is to dismantle infrastructure built by Hezbollah, eliminate terrorists, and remove threats to Israeli civilians.
The development has sparked strong reactions around the world. The UN Security Council has been called to an emergency meeting on Monday at the request of permanent member France.
Nothing can justify the continued Israeli actions in Lebanon and the ever-widening occupation of Lebanese territory - even though Israel has the right to self-defense like all countries, Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot told French television channel BFMTV on Sunday.
“Respect the ceasefire”
Britain's Foreign Minister Yvette Cooper urged both parties not to escalate the situation.
"All sides must respect the ceasefire and participate in negotiations in good faith," she wrote on X on Sunday evening.
Formally, there has been a ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon since April 17. Despite this, Israel and Hezbollah have exchanged fire almost daily and accused each other of violating the ceasefire.
