Columns of smoke rise in an area that was subjected to Israeli shelling yesterday, Saturday, in Marjeyoun, southern Lebanon. The ongoing conflict between Lebanese Hezbollah and Israeli forces has escalated significantly, with Hezbollah announcing new operations targeting Israeli positions in northern Israel. This latest surge in violence comes as both sides engage in a series of retaliatory attacks that have resulted in numerous casualties.
Hezbollah reported that its fighters successfully targeted Iron Dome platforms and military positions in the occupied Syrian Golan Heights using drones. The group claimed these operations resulted in deaths and injuries among Israeli soldiers. Furthermore, they shelled Israeli troops stationed on the Abu Dajaj hill, achieving direct hits, and bombarded settlements such as Kiryat Shmona and Shamir with Katyusha rockets. This escalation is reportedly in response to Israeli attacks that killed three paramedics in southern Lebanon.
In retaliation, the Israeli army conducted air raids across southern Lebanon, including the towns of Aitaroun, Maroun al-Ras, and Yaroun, as well as launching drone strikes against Hezbollah military sites. Israeli forces also intercepted suspicious aerial objects in the Malkiya area and reported that five rockets had fallen in an open area in northern Israel, although no injuries were reported from these incidents.
Since October 8, 2023, the exchanges of fire have resulted in hundreds of casualties, predominantly on the Lebanese side, highlighting the severe humanitarian impact of this conflict. The situation continues to develop, with both sides preparing for further military actions.
- The conflict has roots that trace back decades, with territorial disputes, political tensions, and military confrontations being a regular occurrence in the region. The recent escalation is part of a broader context of instability in the Middle East, where various factions vie for power and influence.
- Hezbollah, a Shiite militant group based in Lebanon, has been a significant player in regional politics and military actions, often acting in response to Israeli military activities. The ongoing violence raises concerns about a larger conflict that could draw in other regional players and exacerbate the humanitarian crisis in Lebanon.
