Hezbollah and Israel engaged in intense aerial attacks on Sunday, with Israeli officials claiming their jets thwarted a larger assault. Three deaths were confirmed in Lebanon, while damage in Israel was limited. Hezbollah indicated they were not planning further strikes yet, amidst fears of escalating violence in the region due to the conflict in Gaza.
Over 100 Israeli planes targeted southern Lebanon, hitting multiple military targets. Negotiations for a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza were ongoing in Cairo. Hezbollah fired 320 rockets at Israel, hitting 11 military targets in retaliation for the assassination of a senior commander. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin III reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to Israel’s defense against attacks by Iran and its allies.
Iran was reportedly preparing an attack on Israel in response to the assassination of a Hamas leader in Tehran. Videos showed Israeli interceptor missiles countering the attacks, and restrictions were imposed on civilians near the border. Flights to and from Ben Gurion airport in Tel Aviv and Beirut were suspended. Despite tensions, Israel stated they did not seek full-scale war but would defend their country and residents.
The situation remains volatile in the Middle East, with fears of further escalation. Israel’s security Cabinet met to discuss the situation, and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to defend the country against any threats. The conflict highlights the ongoing regional tensions and the potential for broader unrest.
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