Hezbollah’s massive rocket barrage in response to Israeli airstrikes raises tensions in the Middle East.
At a Glance
- Hezbollah launched 140 rockets at northern Israel on Friday.
- The attacks followed Israeli airstrikes targeting Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon.
- Rocket attacks targeted Israeli air defense and armored brigade headquarters.
- Fire crews worked to extinguish blazes caused by rocket debris.
- Fears of escalation into all-out war have increased.
Hezbollah Launches Rocket Barrage at Israel
Following Israeli airstrikes on Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon, Hezbollah retaliated by launching 140 rockets into northern Israel. The rockets targeted air defense installations and an Israeli armored brigade headquarters. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed the attacks, which come after a vow by Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah to retaliate for Israeli actions.
The Israeli military reported that the rockets targeted sites along the border with Lebanon in three waves. As part of its response, Israel launched strikes across southern Lebanon, aiming at Hezbollah infrastructure. Fire crews were engaged to manage the fires caused by debris from the rockets, and residents in affected areas were advised to stay close to shelters and avoid public gatherings.
Hezbollah hits northern Israel with 140 rockets https://t.co/FHKPQpvF7L
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Impact and Response
Hezbollah’s rocket attacks were part of a larger response to what it described as Israeli aggression, specifically targeting multiple sites, including air defense bases and an Israeli armored brigade headquarters. The Israeli military noted that up to 120 missiles were fired at strategic locations such as the Golan Heights, Safed, and the Upper Galilee. Some of these rockets were intercepted by Israeli air defenses, but the overall impact and casualties have not been detailed by Israeli authorities.
The situation has created an atmosphere filled with uncertainty and fear, leading to calls for both sides to exercise restraint. The continued exchange of fire between Hezbollah and Israel, nearly daily since October 8, has fostered an environment where further escalation seems almost inevitable.
Widespread Concerns about Escalation
This recent cycle of retaliation highlights the chronic conflict between Hezbollah and Israel. The frequent military engagements, including Israel’s previous strike on “hundreds of rocket launcher barrels” in southern Lebanon, serve as a grim reminder of the fragile peace in the region. As fear of an all-out regional conflict mounts, diplomatic efforts continue to face serious challenges.
“Time and again” when the U.S. and other international mediators believe themselves to be making progress in a ceasefire deal for Israel and Hamas’ war in Gaza, “we’ve seen an event that makes the process more difficult, might derail it,” Blinken said.
On the ground in Gaza, fighting has slowed but casualties continue to rise. Over 41,000 Palestinians have been reported killed since early October, with militants and civilians alike caught in the crossfire. The vast destruction and displacement of about 90% of Gaza’s population only further complicate attempts at peace. The international community remains watchful, though efforts to support a diplomatic resolution face significant barriers.
