Israeli military airstrikes in southern Lebanon have escalated tensions in the region, with Hezbollah launching rocket attacks into Israel. The Israel Defense Forces targeted hundreds of sites in Lebanon in response to the rocket attacks, leading to fears of a wider conflict. Hezbollah claimed to have struck an Israeli airbase near Haifa with missiles, marking a new phase in the ongoing conflict.
Israeli defense minister, Yoav Gallant, stated that the war with Hezbollah had entered a new phase following recent attacks on Lebanon. The region has been on edge since the assassination of a Hezbollah commander, Ibrahim Aqil, and subsequent retaliatory strikes from both sides. The US and UN have warned against further escalation, with airlines cancelling flights to Beirut due to the volatile situation.
The conflict has spilled over into Gaza, with Israel attacking a school turned shelter, resulting in casualties. Israel has expanded its strategic aims to include returning evacuated residents to northern Israel, which is frequently targeted by Hezbollah. The US has urged Americans in Lebanon to leave due to the unpredictable nature of the conflict.
Hezbollah has been launching attacks in support of Hamas, indicating that it will stop targeting Israel when the Gaza offensive ends. The ongoing violence has resulted in numerous casualties on both sides, creating a dangerous buffer zone near the border. The situation remains tense as the conflict shows no signs of abating.
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