The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah flared dramatically on Thursday, as Israeli warplanes carried out a powerful round of airstrikes across southern Lebanon. The offensive marked one of the most intense bombardments in recent months, raising fears of a broader regional confrontation.
Major Strikes Across Southern Lebanon
According to Israeli military officials, the strikes focused on Hezbollah-controlled zones, including the border town of Aitaroun and several nearby villages. The targets reportedly included arms depots, command posts, and other sites described by Israel as part of Hezbollah’s operational network. Witnesses on the ground reported multiple explosions and extensive damage to nearby civilian structures and farmland.
Hezbollah Vows Retaliation
In response, Hezbollah claimed responsibility for launching a barrage of rockets toward Israeli positions in the Shebaa Farms area, a disputed stretch of territory along the border. The militant group said its attacks were a “legitimate defense” against Israeli aggression and vowed to continue its military operations as long as Israel’s air campaign persists.
Israel Cites Security Threat
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) justified the operation as a direct response to Hezbollah’s rocket fire a day earlier, when roughly 30 rockets were fired toward the northern Israeli town of Kiryat Shmona. An IDF spokesperson said the latest airstrikes were intended to neutralize Hezbollah’s ability to carry out further attacks, calling them “a defensive measure to safeguard Israeli citizens.”
Global Concerns Grow
The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) voiced alarm at the growing intensity of cross-border fire, urging both sides to de-escalate immediately. UN officials stressed that continued violations could jeopardize the fragile peace established under UN Security Council Resolution 1701, which ended the 2006 Israel-Hezbollah war.
Reports of Damage and Casualties
Lebanese media outlets reported several casualties and significant property damage across the southern districts, though exact numbers remain unclear. Residents described the strikes as among the heaviest seen this year, with fields and homes reduced to rubble in some areas.
A Widening Conflict
The latest escalation adds to a months-long cycle of violence that has already displaced tens of thousands on both sides of the border. What began as sporadic skirmishes has evolved into near-daily exchanges of fire, prompting renewed fears that the fighting could spiral into a full-scale war reminiscent of 2006.
As both Israel and Hezbollah signal no intention of backing down, diplomats warn that the window for diplomacy is rapidly closing. For now, civilians in the border regions continue to bear the brunt of a conflict showing no signs of slowing.
