The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) targeted key Hezbollah positions across southern Lebanon, claiming the strikes were precise and based on intelligence. Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, an IDF spokesperson, stated that Hezbollah has been using civilian infrastructure to store weapons, including advanced missiles, drones, and rocket launchers. In response, Israel intensified its operations, warning residents in affected areas to evacuate.
Hezbollah, an Iran-backed militant group, retaliated by launching a barrage of rockets deep into Israeli territory, reaching as far as the northern port city of Haifa. While Hezbollah's attacks have caused significant damage, Israel remains firm in its objective to neutralize Hezbollah’s military capabilities. The escalation follows weeks of mounting tensions, with cross-border skirmishes increasing in frequency and severity.
Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati condemned Israel’s strikes, describing them as a “war of extermination” and calling for international intervention to prevent further loss of life. Hezbollah, too, vowed to continue its resistance, framing its actions as a defense of Lebanon’s sovereignty.
Meanwhile, thousands of civilians have fled the conflict zones, with Israeli forces urging residents in southern Lebanon to leave immediately for their safety. Approximately 60,000 Israelis have also been evacuated from the northern regions, where Hezbollah's rocket fire has made daily life untenable.
The international community, led by the United States, is making diplomatic efforts to prevent the conflict from engulfing the wider Middle East. President Joe Biden emphasized that his administration is working to contain the fighting and avoid a broader regional war. Despite these efforts, both sides appear entrenched, with neither showing signs of backing down.