Lebanon’s Hezbollah and Israel are going back and forth over concerns of a new conflict. Israeli Defense Minister Yaf Gehlen proclaimed a 48-hour state of emergency nationwide. At the same time, aviation operations have been temporarily halted, and mass gatherings are prohibited.
In reaction to Israel’s assault on Lebanon yesterday night, Hezbollah launched over 300 missiles and drones toward Israeli military facilities. Eleven Israeli military sites were allegedly destroyed. Although Israeli air defences were successful in destroying the majority of the rockets, the onslaught shook certain localities. According to Israeli media, one person was injured and some property was damaged, but no more information was provided.
The Israeli military (IDF) retaliated by carrying out airstrikes on 40 sites in Lebanon. The IDF was already aware of Hezbollah’s plans for major attacks and instructed the country’s people to be vigilant.
Analysts say this situation has created a new war between the two sides. Tensions have escalated since the killing of Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukur last month. Hezbollah chief Ashraf Chaudhry warned of a strong response to Israel’s attack.
There is growing concern in the Middle East about the current situation, as it raises fears of a wider conflict.
