Israel: Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has reported that more than 100 rockets were launched across the border overnight. Northern Israel woke up with Siren with 85 rockets fired later in the morning and unverified footage has shown a fire in a residential area near Haifa, intensifying concerns.
In response to the attack, Israel’s air force has been conducting airstrikes in southern Lebanon. The IDF has verified the destruction of about 180 places and thousands of rocket launcher barrels targeting Hezbollah positions. This proceeding follows reports of Hezbollah preparing to fire toward Israeli territory. IDF spokesman Rear Adm Daniel Hagari emphasised the intensification of the airstrikes.
The previous strikes are part of the broader conflict that has flared along Israel’s northern borders since October 8, the day after Hamas attacked Israel from Gaza. Hezbollah, the Iran-backed militant group, has engaged in a cross-border fight with Israeli forces, raising fears of a wider war.
Earlier this week, 39 people were killed in Lebanon after pagers and walkie-talkies used by Hezbollah members exploded. Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah accused Israel of crossing “all red lines,” blaming it for the explosions and promising retaliation. However, Israel has not witnessed responsibility for the incident. UN human rights chief Volker Türk condemned the explosions as violations of international humanitarian law.
On account of the escalating situation, the IDF has decided to impose restrictions in northern Israel and parts of the Golan Heights, limiting public gatherings and advising caution in areas like Haifa. The US and Jordan have both insisted their citizens leave Lebanon, with the US Embassy in Beirut warning that it may not be able to assist those who choose to stay, as commercial flights remain available.
Tensions along the Israeli-Lebanese border continue to rise, with both sides preparing for potential further escalations as the region remains on edge.
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