Escalating Conflict: Israeli Strikes and Hezbollah's Response
The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah intensified on October 15, 2024, as Israel continued its artillery and air strikes on southern Lebanon. Reports indicate that Israeli forces targeted multiple locations, including the outskirts of Shebaa, Baalbek, and the Rayak area in the Bekaa Valley. In response, Hezbollah launched a barrage of rockets towards Haifa and other Israeli cities, resulting in injuries and fires across the region.
Casualties and Damage Reported
The Israeli military confirmed the assassination of Khader al-Abd Bahja, the commander of Hezbollah's air force unit in the northern Litani region, during a raid in Nabatieh. Following this, Hezbollah retaliated with missile strikes on Haifa, claiming it was a direct response to what they termed the 'barbaric invasion' by Israeli forces. Reports from Israeli media noted that at least 15 rockets were fired from Lebanon, causing damage to buildings in Kiryat Bialik and starting fires in Ein Afek.
Humanitarian Impact and Ground Clashes
The conflict has led to a significant humanitarian crisis, with over 1,542 reported deaths and 4,500 injuries since the beginning of the bombardments on September 23. More than 1.3 million people have been displaced from southern Lebanon. As ground battles continue, Hezbollah has claimed to have engaged in direct confrontations with Israeli infantry forces, while also reporting the downing of an Israeli drone. The Israeli army has responded by deploying additional troops to the region, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing hostilities.
