Hezbollah has ramped up its assaults on northern Israel, reflecting rising fears of an expanded conflict between the two sides. This escalation follows a significant Israeli operation that targeted Hezbollah’s communications infrastructure, leading to the deaths of at least 37 people and injuring approximately 3,000 in Lebanon. The attack involved the detonation of electronic devices used by Hezbollah, resulting in casualties not only among fighters but also among others connected to the group’s social activities.
Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has indicated a strategic shift, stating that the focus is moving from Gaza, where Israel has been engaged with Hamas, to confronting Hezbollah, which is seen as a formidable adversary backed by Iran. Gallant emphasized the necessity of courage and perseverance as Israel enters what he described as a new phase in its military efforts. He praised the achievements of the Israeli military and security services, although he did not directly address the recent explosions.
On Thursday, Hezbollah confirmed it targeted three Israeli military positions near the border, employing drones in two of the attacks. The Israeli military reported that the drones crashed near populated areas, resulting in minor injuries to at least eight individuals. In response, Israel launched strikes on several militant sites in southern Lebanon, continuing a cycle of retaliation that has claimed hundreds of lives on both sides and displaced tens of thousands of residents.
The ongoing exchanges are seen as Hezbollah’s demonstration of solidarity with Hamas, particularly following the October 7 attack by Hamas that ignited the current conflict. Despite the escalating violence, both Israel and Hezbollah have so far avoided an all-out war, largely due to diplomatic pressures from the United States, France, and other nations.
In anticipation of potential further confrontations, Israel has bolstered its troop presence along the Lebanese border. Israeli army chief Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi has indicated that plans for more aggressive actions against Hezbollah are in place, although it remains uncertain whether the government will authorize a significant military offensive in Lebanon. The situation continues to evolve, with Israeli leaders expressing a determination to alter the current status quo dramatically.
Source: AP
