Israel launched a series of extensive airstrikes on southern Lebanon, targeting more than 100 Hezbollah rocket launchers and other militant sites on Thursday evening. According to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), the strikes aimed to prevent immediate attacks on Israeli territory. Among the targeted sites was a weapons storage facility, with rocket launchers reportedly prepared for firing. The airstrikes are considered some of the most intense of the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah.
Israel’s Statement and Military Actions
In a statement, the IDF confirmed that its warplanes hit approximately 100 launchers and additional terrorist infrastructure, including 1,000 barrels ready for use against Israel. The airstrikes, which lasted over two hours, were concentrated in southern Lebanon. Lebanese state-run National News Agency reported at least 52 strikes in the region. The Israeli military also confirmed that it lifted restrictions on movement for communities in the Golan Heights and northern Israel by Friday morning.
However, it remains unclear whether there were any casualties from the strikes. As a precaution, the IDF urged residents in northern Israel near the Lebanese border to avoid large gatherings, stay close to bomb shelters, and guard their neighborhoods.
Hezbollah’s Retaliatory Strikes
In response, Hezbollah launched its own attacks on military sites in northern Israel. The group’s cross-border aggression began on October 8, 2023, shortly after the unprecedented Hamas attack from Gaza. Hezbollah’s attacks have intensified since then, with the group consistently firing at Israeli positions in support of the Palestinians. Over the course of the ongoing conflict, hundreds of Hezbollah fighters and Israeli soldiers have lost their lives, while tens of thousands of people have been displaced from both sides of the border.
Nasrallah’s Defiant Response
Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah condemned the Israeli airstrikes during a televised address, accusing Israel of crossing all red lines with the recent bombings in Lebanon. He referred to deadly explosions earlier in the week that killed 37 people and injured 3,000 as a “declaration of war.” Nasrallah asserted that Israel’s actions amounted to war crimes, stating, “This is a massacre, a major aggression against Lebanon, its people, its resistance, its sovereignty, and its security.”
Despite the heavy toll on Hezbollah, Nasrallah maintained that the group’s command and communication capabilities were still intact. He vowed harsh retaliation but indicated that Hezbollah was not seeking to escalate the conflict unless provoked by further Israeli attacks.
Israel’s Strategy in the North
Israel’s Defence Minister Yoav Gallant declared the nation’s military campaign was entering a “new phase,” with a focus on intensifying efforts along its northern front. While Israeli forces had previously engaged in sporadic cross-border skirmishes, the IDF now appears to be shifting its strategy toward a more aggressive stance against Hezbollah.
Gallant emphasized the importance of neutralizing Hezbollah’s military infrastructure, stating, “Our goal is to ensure the safe return of Israel’s northern communities to their homes.” However, he acknowledged the challenges ahead, noting that Hezbollah would face increasing pressure as military actions continue.
Reports have also emerged suggesting that Israel may be considering establishing a buffer zone within southern Lebanon to protect its border areas, although no official confirmation has been given.
International Response and Calls for Restraint
Amid the rising tensions, international leaders have called for restraint. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken urged all parties to avoid escalatory actions, emphasizing the need for de-escalation to facilitate a ceasefire in Gaza. European and UK officials echoed similar sentiments, with UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy calling for an immediate ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah. Lammy reiterated the importance of a negotiated political settlement to allow displaced Israelis and Lebanese to return to their homes safely.
As the conflict continues to evolve, it remains uncertain how long the violence will persist and what the ultimate outcome will be for both Israel and Lebanon.
