The Israeli military has reported launching a significant aerial assault on Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon, striking over 120 targets within just one hour. This operation, conducted by the Israeli Air Force (IAF), was part of a broader strategy to combat Hezbollah, coinciding with the first anniversary of the deadliest attack in Israeli history by Hamas.
In a statement released on Monday, the Israeli military emphasized that the targeted sites were associated with Hezbollah’s elite Radwan forces and other militant units. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu underscored the importance of these operations, asserting that Israel’s military actions are vital to prevent a recurrence of the violence experienced on October 7, 2023.
Multiple Fronts of Conflict
As tensions escalate, Israel faces challenges on multiple fronts. The military has also reported intercepting a missile fired from Yemen, a country that, alongside Iran, provides arms and financial support to Hezbollah and Hamas. Iran has praised Hamas’s actions, while Pope Francis condemned the inability of global powers to halt the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
Hezbollah, meanwhile, has claimed responsibility for targeting Israeli soldiers in southern Lebanon, prompting Israel to bolster its military presence in the region. On Monday, Israeli forces reported that Hezbollah had fired approximately 135 projectiles into Israeli territory.
Human Cost and Hostage Crisis
The ongoing conflict has resulted in significant casualties. According to reports, at least ten firefighters were killed due to the bombardment in Lebanon. The humanitarian toll has been staggering, with thousands of militants, including several from Hamas, reportedly killed since the onset of hostilities.
Netanyahu has pledged to ensure the return of hostages held by Hamas, while facing criticism for allegedly hindering international negotiations for a truce and the release of captives. Families of hostages are enduring a prolonged and agonizing wait for news of their loved ones.
Humanitarian Situation in Gaza
The humanitarian situation in Gaza has reached dire levels, with the UN’s Palestinian refugee agency describing the area as a “graveyard.” Since the start of the conflict, the war has displaced millions, and casualty figures in Gaza continue to rise, with estimates of over 41,000 deaths, the majority of whom are civilians.
Philippe Lazzarini, head of UNRWA, emphasized the need for urgent humanitarian assistance as Gaza remains in crisis. The relentless conflict has prompted calls from various quarters for an immediate cessation of hostilities.
As the situation unfolds, the Israeli military has vowed to expand operations against Hezbollah, warning residents to stay clear of coastal areas as they anticipate further military action.
Sources By Agencies
