Beirut, May 07: Israeli warplanes struck suspected guerrilla positions in southern Lebanon after rocket and artillery exchanges early today between Israeli forces and the Lebanese Hezbollah group in the disputed Chebaa farms area near the border, Lebanese security officials said. Less than two hours after the clashes erupted at daybreak, two Israeli fighter jets made two runs, firing at least one missile in each on guerrilla-controlled territory just outside Chebaa farms, the officials said.

The airstrike, the second since Wednesday, appeared to be aimed at the source of guerrilla rocket fire. The rocket and artillery exchanges centred near the Israeli position of Roueissat el-Alam. Israeli artillery shells hit in the hills above the village of Kfar Chouba in southeastern Lebanon, said the officials, speaking on condition of anonymity.

There was no immediate word on casualties. Hezbollah officials said the battle began when Israeli troops attempted to infiltrate guerrilla-controlled territory and were ambushed. There was no immediate comment from Israel on the fighting, which came two days after guerrilla shooting of anti-aircraft fire led to an Israeli airstrike in southern Lebanon.

Bureau Report