In a significant escalation of tensions between the two parties, Hezbollah militants in Lebanon reportedly fired over 100 rockets into northern Israel late last night, following an Israeli Defense Force (IDF) strike on targets in Lebanon earlier in the day. The IDF, in a statement, confirmed the rocket fire, claiming most projectiles were successfully intercepted by the Iron Dome missile defense system, with no reported injuries or significant damages within Israeli territory.
The Israeli military had earlier said they struck Hezbollah targets in response to an infiltration attempt by the militant group along the border. The Lebanese Hezbollah, in a statement, asserted that the rocket fire was retaliation against the Israeli aggression and vowed to defend Lebanon and its people.
Tensions have been running high along the Israel-Lebanon border for weeks, with both sides accusing each other of provocative actions. The UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) has appealed for restraint from all parties involved, expressing concern over the potential escalation of the situation.
The international community has urged both Israel and Hezbollah to de-escalate the conflict, with fears growing that the exchange of fire could lead to a broader conflict. The United Nations Security Council is expected to meet to discuss the latest developments in the region.
As of now, both Israel and Lebanon have maintained a state of readiness, with the IDF reinforcing its positions along the border and the Lebanese army increasing its patrols in the area. The people in both countries have been advised to stay indoors and avoid non-essential travel near the border.