Israel, Hezbollah Escalate Conflict with Renewed Strikes, Rocket Attacks
Tensions between Israel and Hezbollah escalated dramatically on Monday, with both sides launching a barrage of strikes and rocket attacks. The Israeli military reported carrying out 120 strikes on Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon within an hour, while Hezbollah claimed responsibility for a series of rocket attacks on northern Israel, including near the port city of Haifa, Al Jazeera reports.
The Israeli strikes, described as the heaviest bombardment since September 23rd, targeted a range of locations, including a municipal building near Bint Jbeil, which resulted in the deaths of at least 10 Lebanese firefighters. The Ministry of Public Health reported dozens of first responders killed in recent weeks. Israel also announced plans to launch operations on Lebanon’s southern coast, urging residents to stay clear of beaches and the sea for a 60 kilometer stretch.
Hezbollah responded with a series of rocket attacks on northern Israel, including “a large rocket salvo” near Haifa, which marked the first time the port city has been targeted since the escalation began in October 2023. At least 10 people were injured in the initial attack on Haifa. The Israeli military confirmed receiving approximately 135 rockets from Lebanon as of 5pm GMT.
Beyond Haifa, Hezbollah also reported targeting Israeli military positions and troops in two border villages in southern Lebanon, including Maroun al-Ras, where clashes have been ongoing in recent days.
The escalation comes after Israel initiated “targeted” ground raids in southern Lebanon, triggering fierce retaliation from Hezbollah.
