Israeli soldier killed during fighting in southern Lebanon

Israel's military said a 31-year-old soldier was killed during combat operations in southern Lebanon, despite a temporary ceasefire that recently came into effect. The soldier was identified as Lidor Porat from Ashdod, serving in the 7106th Battalion of the 769th Regional Brigade.

His death brings the total number of Israeli soldiers killed in the six-week conflict with Hezbollah to 15. It is the second fatality announced since a ten-day truce, brokered by the United States, began on Friday as part of broader efforts to end the wider regional war.

The latest escalation began on March 2 when Hezbollah launched rocket attacks on Israel following the killing of its leader during initial Israeli and United States strikes on Iran. Israel responded with airstrikes targeting Hezbollah positions in Beirut and southern Lebanon, along with a ground operation in the area.