Hezbollah Strikes Israel with Rockets From Lebanon, Israel Intercepts
In a dramatic escalation of cross-border tensions, Israel's defense systems were activated in response to a barrage of rockets fired from Lebanese territory. The Israeli military confirmed that more than 30 rockets were launched, with the Iron Dome intercepting several of these projectiles aimed at northern Israeli towns.
The origin of the attack was traced back to Hezbollah, the Iran-backed Lebanese militant group, which claimed responsibility for the rocket fire. In a statement, Hezbollah declared that the attack was a direct retaliation for recent Israeli airstrikes on southern Lebanese villages, marking a significant intensification in the conflict dynamics of the region.
The exchange of fire comes amid heightened tensions following a series of confrontations at Jerusalem's Al-Aqsa Mosque, where Israeli police clashed with Palestinian worshippers. The incidents at the mosque have drawn widespread criticism and raised concerns about a broader regional conflict.
A source within the Israeli Defense Forces, speaking on condition of anonymity, stated, "We are on high alert and prepared to defend our citizens against any aggression." The sentiment was echoed by a Lebanese government official who condemned the escalation and called for restraint from all parties involved.
The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) has expressed deep concern over the rocket launches and the subsequent Israeli artillery response. Major General Aroldo Lazaro, head of UNIFIL, has been in active communication with both sides to de-escalate the situation and maintain the fragile peace that has held since the last major conflict in 2006.
