Israel and Hezbollah Escalate Conflict with Heavy Strikes and Explosive Attacks
In a dramatic escalation of hostilities, Israel carried out heavy airstrikes in south Lebanon while Hezbollah launched explosive drones and powerful rockets at Israeli targets on Wednesday. The exchange of attacks resulted in the deaths of three people in Lebanon, according to security sources.
The conflict between Hezbollah and Israel has been ongoing since October, running parallel to the Gaza war. Tens of thousands of people on both sides of the border have been uprooted, raising concerns of a larger war between the heavily armed adversaries.
The Israeli military confirmed hitting military structures and infrastructure belonging to the Iran-backed Hezbollah in three locations in south Lebanon. More than 20 strikes targeted Hezbollah positions in the Ramyeh area. In response, Hezbollah claimed to have launched explosive drones at a military headquarters in the Israeli border town of Ya’ara and fired powerful Burkan rockets at a barracks in Biranit.
Lebanon’s National News Agency reported Israeli strikes on 28 towns and villages in south Lebanon, a Hezbollah stronghold. The Israelis were reportedly targeting underground bunkers used by Hezbollah, leading to secondary explosions indicating weapons storage facilities.
The displacement of around 60,000 residents in northern Israel and 90,000 people in Lebanon due to the conflict has raised calls for firmer military action against Hezbollah in Israel. The United States and France are actively seeking diplomatic solutions to defuse the escalating tensions.
Since October, more than 250 Hezbollah members and 75 civilians have been killed in Israeli strikes in Lebanon, while around 20 people, including soldiers and civilians, have been killed in Israel. The situation remains volatile as both sides continue to exchange fire, raising fears of further escalation.