Hezbollah launched a barrage of rockets from southern Lebanon into northern Israel late on Sunday night though no casualties were recorded.Â
This recent attack is reported as retaliation for Israeli strikes in southern Lebanon, following the assassination of top Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh and Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reported that approximately 30 rockets were fired, with some intercepted by the Iron Dome defense system. The IDF noted that while some rockets fell into open areas, no immediate injuries were reported. The latest rocket fire comes in the wake of an Israeli strike on the town of Ma’aroub, southern Lebanon, which injured 12 people, including six children.
Hezbollah stated that their actions were in support of the Palestinian people in Gaza and in retaliation for Israeli attacks. In a statement, Hezbollah confirmed the launch, declaring, “This is a response to the ongoing aggression against our people and the Palestinians.”
Earlier on Sunday, Israeli Defense Forces spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari emphasized that Israel is monitoring the situation closely. “IDF forces are deployed and prepared in high readiness. If it becomes necessary to change the instructions, we will update about it in an orderly message on the official channels,” Hagari said.
The escalating conflict has drawn concern from international mediators. The United States, Qatar, and Egypt are pushing for a ceasefire and hostage deal between Israel and Hamas. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has confirmed that Israel will participate in upcoming talks aimed at de-escalation.
On the military front, U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has ordered a guided-missile submarine to the Middle East and expedited the arrival of a carrier strike group, anticipating potential Iranian involvement. This move follows reports of Iranian military preparations for a possible large-scale attack on Israel.
According to AFP, at least 565 people have been killed in Lebanon, including 116 civilians, while 22 Israeli soldiers and 26 civilians have lost their lives. Thousands have also been displaced due to the ongoing violence.
The situation remains fluid, with Israeli officers warning of the potential for further ground infiltration by Hezbollah. “Hezbollah is still capable of launching an organized attack on the border,” an IDF officer said. “Such actions could impact the entire region and terrorize local residents.”
