Israeli Airstrikes, Hezbollah Rocket Attacks, and New US Arm Deal
★ ISRAEL-HEZBOLLAH CRISIS
1. Israeli Strikes on Southern Lebanon Spark Hezbollah Rocket Retaliation
Israeli forces launched airstrikes on several locations in southern Lebanon, including Burj al-Muluk, Shebaa, Kafr Shuba, Ramia, Rabis, Hula, and Abbasieh. The strikes resulted in 17 injuries, with four in critical condition, as reported by the Lebanese Ministry of Health. In retaliation, Hezbollah launched rockets at multiple Israeli sites, including Kiryat Shmona and the Galilee region, causing fires in the Western Galilee. Approximately 30 rockets were detected by the Israeli military, but no injuries were reported on the Israeli side. The situation remains tense as both sides continue their military operations.
2. Hezbollah Bombards Israeli Sites, IDF Intercepts Drone from Lebanon
Hezbollah bombarded the Israeli site of Ma’ayan Baruch with artillery, while rockets were launched from southern Lebanon toward Israel’s Galilee region. Five rockets reportedly landed in open areas without causing injuries. Earlier, ten rockets struck open areas in Kiryat Shmona, also without injuries. In response, the Israeli military intercepted a drone that crossed from Lebanon into western Galilee, releasing footage of the interception. Multiple alarms sounded in Israeli towns near the eastern border with Lebanon as additional rockets fell in open areas, causing no damage or injuries.
3. Israeli Artillery Targets Southern Lebanese Towns During Heavy Aerial Surveillance.
Israeli artillery bombarded several towns in southern Lebanon, including Deirmimas, Kfarkela, Tallet Al-Azziya, and the outskirts of Kfar Shuba, as well as areas along the Litani River. Reports indicate that Israeli warplanes are conducting intense, low-altitude flights over Baalbek in northeastern Lebanon. This escalation comes amid heightened tensions and increased military activity in the region, with Israeli forces focusing on key strategic locations in southern Lebanon. The situation remains volatile, with both ground and aerial operations continuing to shape the conflict.
4. US Approves $20 Billion Weapons Sale To Israel During Middle East Tensions.
The U.S. has approved a $20 billion arms sale to Israel, including over 50 F-15 fighter jets, advanced air-to-air missiles, tank ammunition, and tactical vehicles. Congress was notified of the sale, which aims to bolster Israel’s long-term military capabilities. The weapons, however, are not expected to be delivered immediately, with first deliveries scheduled for 2029.
5. Gallant Reveals Hezbollah Military Chief Eliminated From Northern Israel Base
Defense Minister Yoav Gallant disclosed on Tuesday that Israel coordinated the assassination of Hezbollah military chief Fuad Shukr from a northern intelligence base. Gallant, speaking at the undisclosed location, highlighted that Israel is closely monitoring developments in Beirut, Tehran, and beyond, preparing for any potential retaliation. He emphasized that IDF intelligence personnel focus on eliminating threats and maintaining readiness to strike targets “wherever we choose.” The country remains on high alert following the killings of Shukr and Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran.
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