Hezbollah Launches Massive Attack on Israel in Retaliation for Commander's Assassination
Hezbollah has executed a significant military response against Israel, firing over 320 rockets early Sunday morning. This attack is a direct retaliation for the assassination of its military commander, Fouad Shukr, by Israeli forces. The Islamic Resistance Movement, Hamas, has lauded this action, referring to it as a powerful blow to what they call the 'fascist occupation government.' The operation, which targeted vital locations deep within Israel, has sparked a wave of support from various militant groups, including the Islamic Jihad and the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine, who see it as a testament to Hezbollah’s enduring resolve.
International Reactions and Calls for Ceasefire
In light of escalating tensions, the United Nations has urgently called for a ceasefire between Hezbollah and Israel. The UN's Special Coordinator in Lebanon expressed concern over the ongoing violence and urged all parties to refrain from further escalation. Egypt has also voiced its apprehension regarding the potential for a new war front in Lebanon, emphasizing the need for stability and the preservation of Lebanon’s sovereignty amid rising hostilities. The Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterated the importance of avoiding a broader conflict that could destabilize the region.
The IDF's Preemptive Strikes and Ongoing Conflict
In response to Hezbollah's missile launch, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) carried out extensive airstrikes across southern Lebanon, reportedly deploying over 100 warplanes to target more than 200 sites. The IDF's preemptive measures were triggered by intelligence on unusual activities in Lebanon, leading to a swift military response. Despite the chaos, reports suggest that Hezbollah aimed its strikes at specific military targets rather than major urban centers, indicating a calculated approach to avoid escalating into a full-scale war. Meanwhile, Iranian officials hinted at forthcoming actions against Israel, signaling that the regional tensions may continue to escalate.
- The attack by Hezbollah was reportedly delayed due to political considerations, particularly ongoing negotiations between Israel and Hamas regarding a hostage deal and a ceasefire in Gaza. An official from Hezbollah mentioned that they aimed to avoid a large-scale conflict while still delivering a response to the assassination of Shukr. Despite this, the IDF's preemptive strikes caught Hezbollah off guard, disrupting their plans. The situation remains fluid, with both sides preparing for potential further confrontations.
