Hezbollah Launches Largest Attack Since October Conflict Reignited
Hezbollah intensified hostilities on Lebanon’s southern border by launching a coordinated attack on nine Israeli military sites on Thursday. This escalation came in response to an Israeli strike that killed a senior Hezbollah commander earlier in the week. A security source reported that this was Hezbollah’s largest attack since the conflict reignited in October.
The group stated it fired volleys of Katyusha and Falaq rockets at six Israeli military locations and launched attack drones at Israel’s northern command, an intelligence headquarters, and a military barracks. According to a security source, at least 30 attack drones were used, marking Hezbollah’s largest drone assault to date.
The ongoing conflict has seen daily exchanges of fire since the Gaza war began in October, but the recent days marked a significant escalation. On Wednesday, Hezbollah conducted at least eight attacks in retaliation for the commander’s death.
Air raid sirens sounded across northern Israel, with about 40 rockets fired from Lebanon. Israeli officials reported numerous mid-air interceptions of rockets, including in Safed. Two people were wounded by shrapnel.
The conflict has resulted in over 300 Hezbollah fighters and around 80 civilians killed in Lebanon, while 18 Israeli soldiers and 10 civilians have died. The fighting has displaced tens of thousands on both sides.
Israeli government spokesperson David Mencer affirmed Israel’s commitment to defending itself and restoring peace. Group of Seven leaders meeting in Italy expressed deep concern over the escalating situation.
