Israel-Hezbollah War
THE EARLY PHOENIX
Briefing Dispatch
August 19, 2024
Israeli Airstrikes and Drills Yield Limited Impact, Hezbollah Fires Missiles
The volatile situation on Israel’s northern front warrants the description of a full-fledged war. On August 16, the Israeli army conducted drills simulating long-range strikes with F-35 and F-15 jets. This posturing follows Hezbollah’s showcase of an advanced underground missile facility. Later that day, Israeli airstrikes targeted a Hezbollah arms depot in Nabatieh, southern Lebanon, killing ten Syrian refugees and injuring five others. In retaliation, Hezbollah launched dozens of rockets from southern Lebanon towards Safed and Upper Galilee. A rocket hit a building in Safed, causing significant damage. In Upper Galilee, 40 rockets sparked multiple fires, injuring two Israeli soldiers, one critically. Fifty-five more rockets launched from Lebanon caused further fires and power outages in Safed. Firefighting teams battled over 10 fires across Upper Galilee.
Lebanon Faces Blackout, Israel Provides Aid to Survivors
As Lebanon plunges into a blackout due to Hezbollah’s war, WJRO will distribute $10 million to Holocaust survivors fleeing attacks. The shutdown has crippled Rafik Hariri Airport, the Port of Beirut, and water facilities, worsening Lebanon’s energy crisis and instability. The government’s financial struggles have limited its ability to purchase fuel, deepening the impact on critical infrastructure and services. With no timeline for restoring power, Lebanon’s electricity production has dropped to unprecedented lows, worsening economic and infrastructure challenges. The ongoing political vacuum and Hezbollah’s broader conflict have plunged Lebanon into chaos, causing young people to flee and families to struggle financially. Iraq has finally confirmed its commitment to supplying Lebanon with fuel, with shipments expected despite delays. The WJRO aid contrasts with Lebanon’s struggles, showing how Jewish organizations provide substantial support while Lebanon grapples with internal challenges and instability.
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Related studies:
Israeli Airstrikes, Hezbollah Rocket Attacks, and New US Arm Deal
Hezbollah Threatens Israel with Unprecedented Retaliation
