Officials from the ministry’s Emergency Operations Center said casualties were recorded following sustained artillery shelling and air raids that struck towns including Zawtar al-Sharqiya, Yahmar al-Shaqif, Mifdoun, and the outskirts of Deir Seryan. The bombardment lasted more than 30 minutes, according to field reports, with residents describing intense explosions and widespread damage to homes and infrastructure.

"The shelling was continuous and heavy. People were running for shelter as buildings shook,” said Samir Fouad, a resident of Mifdoun, speaking to Lamaane News Network. Emergency responders were seen navigating narrow roads under smoky conditions, transporting the wounded to nearby hospitals already operating under strain.

The Israel Defense Forces confirmed issuing new evacuation warnings on Sunday, urging civilians in at least seven border towns to move north or west, citing security concerns following the death of an Israeli soldier. In a statement posted on X, a military spokesperson accused Hezbollah of violating an existing ceasefire arrangement and warned of further military action.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said during a security cabinet meeting in Jerusalem that Israel’s actions were guided by national security priorities. "What obliges us is the security of Israel, our soldiers, and our citizens,” he said, adding that operations were conducted in line with understandings reached with the United States and Lebanon.

Hezbollah, in a separate statement, said it would continue targeting Israeli forces inside Lebanon and northern Israeli towns as long as it views Israeli actions as violations of the ceasefire. The group’s position underscores the fragile nature of the truce, which has not fully halted hostilities.

On the ground, plumes of smoke were visible across several southern areas, and residents reported ongoing demolition activities in towns such as Taybeh. Humanitarian workers noted increased displacement, with families leaving affected areas carrying essential belongings.

The escalation highlights persistent instability along the Lebanon–Israel border despite diplomatic efforts to maintain calm. Analysts say the continued fighting risks broader regional involvement and further complicates ceasefire enforcement mechanisms.

The developments mark one of the deadliest days in recent weeks, raising concerns about civilian protection and the durability of current de-escalation agreements.