Israel targets Hezbollah in massive airstrikes, escalating tensions in Lebanon
An airstrike in Gaza, conducted by Israel Air Force. (Photo by Mahmud Hams via Getty Images)
Israeli warplanes conducted a series of airstrikes in southern Lebanon, targeting the Birket Jabbour area in Jezzine with dozens of missiles.
The Israeli army reported that its airstrikes focused on nearly 30 rocket launchers belonging to Hezbollah, as well as other associated “infrastructures.”
In a statement from the Israeli army, it was emphasized, “Guided by Israeli military, intelligence, air force struck approximately 30 Hezbollah launchers and terrorist infrastructure facilities. This included about 150 launcher barrels prepared to fire at Israeli territory.”
‘New phase in this war’
Attacks follow Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant’s earlier remarks. “We are entering a new phase in this war, presenting significant opportunities, but also significant risks. Hezbollah senses it is being hunted, and our military operations will persist,” Gallant said.
Gallant underscored their objective of safely returning residents in the northern region to their homes, asserting, “As time progresses, Hezbollah will pay a higher price. Concurrently, we will continue our efforts to recover hostages and dismantle Hamas.”
Drone airs anti-Nasrallah messages
Meanwhile, an Israeli drone flew over towns in the Nabatieh district of southern Lebanon on Thursday, broadcasting incendiary audio messages targeting Hezbollah Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah, according to media reports.
The Lebanese National News Agency reported that the drone was active in the towns of Doueir, Toul, Kfour, and Zebdine.
Sources indicated that the drone used loudspeakers to deliver inflammatory messages, accusing Nasrallah of bringing widespread destruction to the local population.
Earlier on Thursday, Hezbollah announced drone attacks targeting military sites in northern Israel. This escalation follows two days of deadly incidents involving the explosion of wireless communication devices across Lebanon, which resulted in significant casualties. In response to these tensions, the Israeli army bombarded two towns in southern Lebanon with phosphorus shells, further intensifying the conflict in the region.
