Hezbollah launched a new barrage into northern Israel on Thursday, escalating tensions with the Israeli military. This exchange comes in the wake of a series of explosions in Lebanon that resulted in significant casualties.
The explosions, which targeted electronic devices used by Hezbollah members, led to the death of at least 32 people and left over 3,000 others wounded. The attacks were believed to be part of a larger operation by Israel to weaken Hezbollah's capabilities.
Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant hinted at a potential escalation, stating that the country is entering a new phase in the conflict. He commended the Israeli army for its efforts and emphasized the need for courage and determination.
Hezbollah retaliated by targeting military positions in northern Israel, causing injuries to several individuals. In response, the Israeli military conducted strikes in southern Lebanon.
The ongoing back-and-forth attacks have resulted in casualties on both sides and forced the evacuation of residents near the border. International pressure has prevented a full-scale war between Israel and Hezbollah in the past.
As tensions continue to rise, Israel has deployed additional troops to its border with Lebanon as a precautionary measure. Plans for further action against Hezbollah are being considered, although a major offensive has not been confirmed.
Meanwhile, Lebanon is grappling with the aftermath of the recent bombings, which have instilled fear of a potential all-out war. The Lebanese Army is working to locate and neutralize suspicious communication devices, while civil aviation authorities have imposed restrictions on certain electronic devices.
The attacks have severely disrupted Hezbollah's internal communication channels, prompting the group to reassess its strategies. Hezbollah has vowed to retaliate against Israel in response to the recent events.
The indiscriminate nature of the explosions has raised concerns about potential war crimes. International law prohibits the use of booby-traps and the weaponization of civilian objects, highlighting the gravity of the situation.