Israel and Hezbollah Exchange Heavy Fire as Tensions Rise in Southern Lebanon
Early this morning, Israel launched a series of airstrikes targeting Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between the two forces.
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed that over 100 fighter jets were involved in the operation, which they said was aimed at preventing imminent attacks by Hezbollah on Israeli territory.
The airstrikes, which began at around 5:00 AM local time, were described by IDF spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari as “a necessary preemptive measure.”
Hagari stated, “Our intelligence indicated that Hezbollah was preparing to launch rockets and drones into northern Israel. We had no choice but to act swiftly to protect our citizens.”
In retaliation, Hezbollah fired more than 320 Katyusha rockets and deployed several drones toward northern Israel. The militant group, which is backed by Iran, claimed that their attacks were in response to the killing of Fuad Shukr, a senior Hezbollah commander, by Israeli forces last month.
“This is only the beginning of our response,” a Hezbollah spokesperson warned, indicating that further actions could follow if Israel continues its strikes.
The Israeli air defense systems were able to intercept a significant number of the rockets, preventing major damage or casualties within Israel.
However, the situation on the ground remains tense, with residents in northern Israel being advised to stay in shelters and avoid large gatherings. The IDF has also declared a 48-hour state of emergency in the region.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the nation shortly after the strikes, emphasizing Israel’s right to defend itself. “We will not tolerate any attacks on our land or our people. Our enemies should know that whoever harms us will face severe consequences,” Netanyahu stated.
In Lebanon, the government has called for an emergency cabinet meeting to address the rapidly deteriorating situation. Lebanese President Michel Aoun condemned the Israeli strikes, calling them “a violation of Lebanon’s sovereignty and an act of aggression.” He also urged the international community to intervene and prevent further escalation.
Meanwhile, Hezbollah’s leader, Hassan Nasrallah, is expected to make a public statement later today. The group has vowed to continue its resistance against what it views as Israeli aggression.
The international community has reacted swiftly to the escalation. The United States, through a statement from the State Department, expressed concern over the rising tensions and urged both sides to exercise restraint. “We recognize Israel’s right to defend itself, but we also call for immediate steps to de-escalate the situation to avoid further loss of life,” the statement read.
European Union officials have also called for calm, with EU Foreign Policy Chief Josep Borrell stating, “The cycle of violence must end. Both sides need to engage in dialogue to prevent a wider conflict.”
As of now, the situation remains volatile. The IDF continues to carry out strikes on Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon, while Hezbollah has hinted at further retaliation. Both sides seem prepared for a prolonged confrontation, raising fears that this latest flare-up could lead to a broader and more destructive conflict in the already tense Middle East.