Israeli Strikes Kill 492 in Lebanon, Hezbollah Fires 200 Rockets

Since the Gaza conflict erupted on October 7, 2023, tensions between Israel and Hezbollah have escalated significantly. Monday marked the deadliest day in this ongoing conflict, as Israeli airstrikes killed 492 people in Lebanon. In retaliation, Hezbollah fired over 200 rockets into northern Israel.

The Israeli military reported striking 1,600 Hezbollah targets in Lebanon, prompting tens of thousands of civilians to flee southern Lebanon for the capital, Beirut. According to Lebanon’s health ministry, the death toll included dozens of women and children. This event is considered the most devastating day since the 2006 Israel-Hezbollah conflict.

Hezbollah responded by launching nearly 200 rockets towards northern Israeli cities, including Haifa and Nazareth. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) stated that most of the rockets were intercepted by the Iron Dome defense system, preventing major casualties or damages.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that his military was altering the security balance along the northern border. IDF Chief of Staff, Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi, mentioned that the army was preparing for the next phases in Lebanon.

The IDF released images showing a long-range rocket mounted on a hydraulic launcher inside a Lebanese home, which they claimed was part of Hezbollah’s plan for major attacks on Israeli territories.

US President Joe Biden was briefed on the situation and emphasized efforts to de-escalate the conflict. A US State Department spokesperson reiterated Washington’s readiness to defend its allies, while the Pentagon announced the deployment of additional troops to the Middle East.

Earlier on Monday, Israeli forces warned Lebanese citizens in Beirut to evacuate their homes, particularly those near Hezbollah weapon storage sites. This came after several of Hezbollah’s communication devices exploded across Lebanon.

France requested a UN Security Council meeting to address the escalating conflict, while Egypt urged global powers to intervene immediately. Meanwhile, Iran accused Israel of provoking a broader conflict, while Israel’s Foreign Minister Israel Katz blamed Hezbollah for using civilians as human shields.

As a result of the growing tensions, EgyptAir and Jordan suspended all flights to and from Beirut until further notice.

Aakhir Tak Editor-in-Chief

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