Hezbollah militants fired dozens of rockets into northern Israel from Lebanon on Wednesday, in what they said was retaliation for an Israeli strike in southern Lebanon overnight. The exchange of fire comes amidst escalating tensions in the region, with pro-Palestinian protesters in Jordan calling for the government to sever ties with Israel.
The Israeli military reported targeting a “significant terrorist operative” near the town of al-Habbariyeh in southern Lebanon, which Lebanon’s Ministry of Health said resulted in the death of seven paramedics. In response, Hezbollah launched 30 rockets into Israel, including a strike on a building in Kiryat Shmona that claimed the life of a 25-year-old individual.
The ongoing conflict between Hezbollah and Israeli forces has been fueled by the recent war in Gaza, with Hezbollah firing rockets into northern Israel on a near-daily basis since October. The Israeli military has responded with strikes against Hezbollah-linked targets in Lebanon.
Meanwhile, in Gaza, Hamas continues to engage in attacks against Israeli soldiers despite a new U.N. Security Council resolution calling for a cease-fire. The resolution, which was passed after the United States abstained from the vote, aims to secure the release of hostages held by militants in Gaza.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed frustration over the U.S.’s decision not to block the resolution, stating that it allows Hamas to believe that international pressure will prevent Israel from taking action. The U.S. had previously vetoed three attempts to approve a cease-fire resolution at the Council.
Despite the escalating violence, efforts are being made to reschedule a meeting between Israeli and American officials to discuss a planned offensive in Rafah. The White House’s press secretary, Karine Jean-Pierre, confirmed that they are working to set a new date for the meeting in the coming days.
As the conflict continues to unfold, the international community remains on edge, with concerns growing over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the potential for further escalation in the region.
