Tensions Escalate in Middle East as Israel, Hezbollah Exchange Fire
The Middle East is facing a dangerous escalation of violence, with Israel and Hezbollah trading blows across multiple fronts, Al Jazeera reports.
The situation has been fueled by a series of attacks and counter-attacks
Drone Attacks and Missile Strikes in Northern Israel
Israeli news outlets reported at least three drone attacks targeting Kiryat Shmona and Beit Hillel, both near the Lebanese border. The attacks took place without prior warning sirens, leaving residents shaken. In a separate incident, a projectile struck the community of Ya’ara, injuring several people.
Earlier, a missile attack on Israel’s Ramim Ridge in the Galilee area resulted in at least eight injuries, including one critically. These attacks follow two days of explosions in Lebanon, widely blamed on Israel, which have dramatically heightened tensions between Israel and Hezbollah.
Israeli Air Strikes in Gaza
In response to the recent events, Israel has launched multiple air strikes across the Gaza Strip, targeting areas in the north, central, and south. The deadliest attack struck a family home in Jabalia, killing four people. Two more were killed in a separate air strike in Rafah.
In the Nuseirat camp, a quadcopter attack injured numerous civilians, including children.
Raids in the West Bank
Israeli forces have also launched a raid on Qabatiya, near Jenin in the occupied West Bank. Reports from the scene indicate heavy gunfire as Palestinian residents resisted the Israeli forces. The Palestinian Red Crescent reported being prevented from accessing a house that was under siege by Israeli forces.
Journalists covering the raid were targeted with tear gas by Israeli forces. Several sources have confirmed at least three Palestinian deaths in the ongoing raid.
Turkey Expresses Concerns
Turkey has condemned the escalation of violence, particularly Israel’s actions towards Lebanon, citing the “alarming” wave of deadly explosions in Hezbollah strongholds. Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan expressed concern over Israel’s seemingly deliberate escalation, suggesting it could be a prelude to a wider conflict.
