Hezbollah launched a significant offensive against northern Israel on Friday, firing 140 rockets in response to the recent escalation of violence following a mass bombing attack, according to both the Israeli military and Hezbollah. The assault was executed in three distinct waves, targeting areas along the contested border with Lebanon.
Israeli Retaliation Targets Beirut
In retaliation, the Israeli military conducted a “targeted strike” in Beirut, causing explosions to be heard in the southern suburbs of the city. While specifics of the operation remain undisclosed, Hezbollah confirmed the airstrike hit their territory.
The conflict continues to unfold in Gaza, where Palestinian authorities reported that overnight Israeli airstrikes resulted in the deaths of 15 individuals, including children. An early morning attack in Gaza City targeted a family home, resulting in six fatalities, while additional strikes throughout the region contributed to the rising casualty count. Gaza’s Health Ministry reports over 41,000 Palestinians have died since Hamas’s attack on October 7, although the figures do not distinguish between militants and civilians.
The Israeli military claims to target militants specifically, asserting that Hamas and similar groups endanger civilian lives by operating within residential areas. Despite these claims, civilian casualties continue to mount, leading to widespread international concern.
In response to the escalating tensions, Israel’s Foreign Ministry has challenged the International Criminal Court’s jurisdiction regarding arrest warrants sought against Israeli leaders. The court aims to hold Israeli officials accountable alongside top Hamas leaders for alleged war crimes.
In a related development, reports emerged of the killing of an Iranian-backed Iraqi militia leader in Syria, further intensifying regional tensions. Israeli strikes targeting Iranian-affiliated groups have been common, although Israel typically refrains from claiming responsibility for such operations.
The situation remains volatile as both sides brace for further confrontations, with Hezbollah’s attacks and Israeli airstrikes escalating the conflict in a region already strained by years of tension.