Israel renews Lebanon strikes despite Iran ceasefire, Netanyahu excludes country from truce

Israel renewed airstrikes in southern Lebanon on Wednesday, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu explicitly stating the Iran-US ceasefire does not include Lebanon. This came despite no claimed Hezbollah operations since Tuesday 22:00 GMT. Israel expanded evacuation orders to areas more than 40km inside Lebanon, warning "the battle in Lebanon is ongoing" after striking buildings in Tyre and other southern areas.

Pakistani PM Shehbaz Sharif, acting as mediator, claimed the ceasefire "everywhere including Lebanon," but Lebanese authorities say they "have not been informed" of this. French President Macron also urged the ceasefire to "fully include Lebanon." The conflict has killed over 1,500 people and displaced more than one million, with southern residents returning despite military warnings against it.

For Nigeria, this matters as oil producer - Middle East conflicts can trigger price volatility that affects local fuel costs. Monitor for possible fuel price adjustments as the situation develops. Nigeria's government position on the conflict may also influence diplomatic relations with key international partners.

SOURCE: https://www.channelstv.com/2026/04/08/israel-renews-strikes-on-south-lebanon-despite-mideast-truce/