In a significant escalation of hostilities, Lebanon-based militant group Hezbollah reportedly launched over 100 projectiles into Israeli territory early this morning, following a series of alleged Israeli Defense Force (IDF) airstrikes on targets within Lebanon. The IDF, in a statement, confirmed the attacks but did not provide details about the nature of the targets or casualties.
The Israeli military has responded by launching an extensive air defense system to intercept the incoming projectiles. Sirens warning of incoming rocket fire were heard in various areas of northern Israel. No immediate reports of injuries or damage have been confirmed, although Israeli officials have stated that they are assessing the situation.
This latest escalation comes after a relative calm on the Israel-Lebanon border since the 2006 Lebanon War. The cause of the escalation is not immediately clear, but tensions have been high due to the ongoing conflict in Syria, where Hezbollah is heavily involved.
Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett has convened an emergency meeting of his security cabinet to discuss the situation. Lebanon’s President Michel Aoun has called for calm and restraint, urging all parties to prioritize diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the situation.
The international community has expressed concern over the escalation and is urging both sides to exercise restraint and avoid further escalation. The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) has also issued a statement, emphasizing its commitment to maintaining peace and security along the Lebanon-Israel border.
This developing story will be updated as more information becomes available.