On Saturday, the Iran-backed terrorist group Hezbollah launched a series of rocket attacks on Israel, resulting in a tragic incident at a soccer field in the town of Majdal Shams near the Syrian border. Reports indicate that at least 10 individuals have been killed and 29 others injured, with many of the victims believed to be children.
The attack, which took place in the predominantly Druze town, marks one of the deadliest assaults in the region since Hezbollah joined the conflict in support of Hamas earlier this month. The victims, ranging in age from 10 to 20, were attended to by the Magen David Adom ambulance service.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) swiftly attributed the rocket launch to Hezbollah, condemning the act as a deliberate attack on civilians. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, currently in the U.S., was briefed on the situation and is closely monitoring developments.
Israel's Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant, along with IDF Chief of the General Staff LTG Herzi Halevi, are actively assessing the situation following the assault. The IDF reported that around 30 projectiles were detected crossing into Israel from Lebanon, where Hezbollah holds significant influence.
Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz warned of a potential escalation, stating that the country may be on the brink of a full-scale conflict with Hezbollah. The recent attack in Majdal Shams underscores the growing tensions in the region, with concerns of a broader conflict looming.
Experts have highlighted the deteriorating deterrence against Hezbollah, leading to increased hostilities and the risk of further violence. The history of conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, including past wars in 1982 and 2006, adds to the complexity of the current situation.
As the region braces for potential escalation, the international community is closely monitoring the developments and urging restraint to prevent further loss of life and destabilization.