The conflict between Israel and Lebanon continues to intensify, as Hezbollah launches a series of counter-attacks in response to devastating Israeli airstrikes that have resulted in a mounting civilian death toll, particularly in Gaza.
Lebanon Responds to Israeli Airstrikes
Hezbollah launched multiple rocket barrages from southern Lebanon, targeting key Israeli military installations and cities, following Israeli airstrikes that have killed at least 550 people, including 50 children, in Gaza. The group claims the strikes are in direct response to what it calls Israel’s genocidal air campaign.
Hezbollah Targets Military Bases
Hezbollah has targeted several Israeli military bases, including the Amos base, Megiddo military airport, and Ramat David base with Fadi 1 and 2 rockets. In a statement, Hezbollah emphasized that the attacks are part of their defense of Lebanon and support for the Palestinian resistance. The group’s leader warned that any Israeli incursions into southern Lebanon would be met with further escalations.
Civilian Casualties Mount in Gaza
The Israeli air campaign in Gaza has resulted in widespread destruction and significant loss of life. Hospitals are struggling to cope with the overwhelming number of casualties. According to Lebanon’s health ministry, the death toll in Israeli strikes has surpassed 550, with 50 children among the victims. The strikes, which have hit residential areas and civilian infrastructure, have sparked international concern over the humanitarian crisis in the region.
Rocket Attacks on Northern Israel
In retaliation, Hezbollah launched rocket barrages targeting northern Israel, including Kiryat Shmona, Migdal HaEmek, Nazareth, and Haifa. Rockets have also struck Kibbutz Snir in the Finger of Galilee. Despite the Iron Dome defense system, several rockets landed, causing widespread alarms and some injuries. HaEmek Hospital in Afula reported five injuries from this morning’s attacks.
Israeli Retaliation and Airstrikes in Lebanon
The Israeli Air Force has responded with new airstrikes on Hezbollah positions in Lebanon, further escalating the conflict. The back-and-forth attacks mark a dramatic escalation in hostilities, with no signs of de-escalation on either side.
GPS Interference and Air Defense Failures
Yedioth Ahronoth reports significant interference with GPS systems across Israel, while the Iron Dome system failed to intercept several rockets. Sirens have sounded 377 times across Israel in the last 24 hours, according to Walla, the highest alert level since the current round of conflict began on October 8.
Drone and Naval Strikes by Hezbollah
Hezbollah also launched kamikaze drones targeting the Israeli Special Naval Task Unit at the Atlit base, signaling the widening scope of the conflict.
Syrian Air Defenses Activated
Syrian air defenses reportedly shot down four Israeli targets over the skies of Tartus, further complicating the regional conflict.
International Reactions
As the situation spirals out of control, international efforts to mediate are gaining urgency. While Hezbollah has reportedly urged Iran to intervene militarily, there has been no direct action from Tehran. U.S. and British forces are on high alert, with jets patrolling the Red Sea amid concerns that the conflict could spread.
As the death toll in Gaza continues to rise and hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah intensify, the region is on the brink of a broader war, with civilians bearing the brunt of the violence.