Hezbollah Targets Israeli Military Gatherings in Southern Lebanon
Hezbollah has intensified its military operations against Israeli forces, announcing a series of attacks on military bases and gatherings in southern Lebanon and northern Israel. On November 22, 2024, Hezbollah claimed to have targeted 11 Israeli military positions, including a base near Haifa, using drones and missiles. The group reported that it launched a squadron of suicide drones at Israeli forces in the town of Yarin and bombarded other locations such as Dovev barracks and the settlements of Sa'sa', Al-Malikiyah, and Kfar Kila.
The ongoing conflict has resulted in significant casualties on both sides. The Lebanese Ministry of Health reported that five paramedics were killed in Israeli airstrikes, while the Israeli army confirmed that eight soldiers were injured during the clashes. Israeli air raids have caused extensive destruction in southern Lebanon, particularly in the suburbs of Beirut and the city of Tyre, targeting neighborhoods and command centers associated with Hezbollah.
UNIFIL Soldiers Injured in Rocket Attack
In a related incident, four Italian soldiers serving with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) were injured when two rockets struck their headquarters in the town of Shamaa. The Italian government condemned the attack, with Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni describing it as "unacceptable." Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani suggested that Hezbollah was responsible for the missile strikes, which were confirmed by the Italian Defense Ministry.
UNIFIL has called for restraint from both sides to prevent further escalation in the region. The situation remains tense as Hezbollah continues to respond to Israeli military actions with missile and drone attacks, while Israel maintains its air campaign against Hezbollah positions in Lebanon.
Escalating Conflict and Humanitarian Impact
The conflict, which escalated following Israel's military operations in Gaza since October 7, 2023, has led to significant humanitarian crises. Reports indicate that over 148,000 Palestinians have been killed or injured, with the Israeli military's actions in Lebanon resulting in approximately 3,583 deaths and over 15,000 injuries, including many women and children. The ongoing violence has displaced around 1.4 million people in Lebanon, exacerbating the humanitarian situation in the region.
As military operations continue, both Hezbollah and the Israeli army are facing mounting casualties, with military censorship in Israel limiting the information available about their losses. The international community is closely monitoring the situation, urging both parties to seek a resolution to the conflict.
