(MENAFN) France has privately warned Israel that its ongoing violations of a US-brokered ceasefire with Hezbollah in Lebanon could undermine the fragile agreement and lead to its collapse. According to reports from several Israeli news outlets, French officials have documented at least 52 violations by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), including airstrikes on what Israel claims were Hezbollah targets, which resulted in the deaths of at least three Lebanese civilians. France also expressed concern over Israeli low-altitude drone flights over Beirut, which have added to tensions in the region.

In its communication with Israel, France reportedly emphasized the importance of adhering to the terms of the ceasefire and allowing the Lebanese authorities time to fulfill their responsibilities under the agreement. A French official is said to have remarked that Lebanon was fully committed to maintaining the ceasefire and preventing Hezbollah from reestablishing its presence in southern Lebanon, but that they needed more time to prove their commitment. Paris urged Israel to exercise restraint and avoid further escalations that could destabilize the situation.

Israel, however, defended its actions, arguing that the international monitoring committee responsible for overseeing the ceasefire would not be operational until early next week. Until that time, Israel claimed it would continue to respond with force to any violations or perceived threats from Hezbollah. Israeli officials also pointed to a "side letter" from the US, which reportedly allows Israel to take military action against any renewed threats from Hezbollah in southern Lebanon. This side letter stipulates that Israel must notify the US whenever it takes action inside Lebanon, according to Israeli sources.

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