Israel is gearing up to retaliate against Iran following an attack on October 1. Sources indicate that Israeli strikes are ongoing in Lebanon and Gaza. US officials anticipate Israel's response before November 5, which could escalate tensions in the Middle East just days after the US presidential election.
In a recent airstrike in Nabatiyeh, Lebanon, at least 16 people were killed, including the mayor and municipal workers. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) targeted Hezbollah infrastructure, claiming it was used by Hezbollah's Radwan Forces. Additionally, Beirut's southern suburbs were struck by Israel, hitting strategic weapons belonging to Hezbollah.
Hezbollah responded by launching rockets into northern Israel, with the IDF reporting about 50 projectiles launched from Lebanon. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed opposition to a unilateral ceasefire, stating it would not improve the security situation in Lebanon.
The United Nations has called for an investigation into an Israeli strike in Aitou, northern Lebanon, which resulted in the deaths of at least 21 people. The incident also injured two paramedics responding to the attack.
In Gaza, the IDF announced the killing of Hamas commander Mahmoud al-Mabhouh, who led the group's drone operations in northern Gaza. Meanwhile, Israel has restricted access for seven medical NGOs into the Palestinian enclave, following warnings from the US to improve humanitarian conditions in Gaza.
Despite these developments, the State Department acknowledged Israel's efforts to enhance the flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza but did not confirm if these measures are sufficient.
