Hezbollah launched a rocket targeting Mossad’s headquarters near Tel Aviv on Wednesday. This sparked further escalations between Hezbollah and Israel. The Israeli military intercepted the missile before it caused any damage. It confirmed that the rocket was fired from a village in southern Lebanon, but it disputed Hezbollah’s claim about the target.
Israeli Air Defences Respond to Threat
When the rocket was detected, warning sirens blared across Tel Aviv and surrounding areas. Though the missile was intercepted, no casualties or damage were reported. Israeli military spokesperson Nadav Shoshani said they could not confirm Hezbollah’s intended target but added that the Mossad headquarters is not located near Tel Aviv’s civilian areas. The incident triggered a broader conflict as Israel launched its heaviest airstrikes in a year against Hezbollah.
Conflict Escalates on Northern Border
Tensions between Hezbollah and Israel have been high since October, when war broke out between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. Hezbollah, acting in support of its ally Hamas, has been launching attacks on Israel’s northern border. In response, Israel intensified its airstrikes, hitting Hezbollah strongholds and strategic sites deep inside Lebanon.
Hezbollah’s retaliation came in the form of hundreds of rockets and missiles. Israel’s strikes have been focused on southern Lebanon and the Bekaa Valley, causing widespread destruction. The Israeli military reported extensive operations in the region, and Israeli air defences intercepted further threats, including a drone from Syria.
Casualty Toll and Humanitarian Impact
The conflict has led to a growing humanitarian crisis. Since the start of the Israeli offensive, 569 people have been killed in Lebanon, including 50 children. Lebanese health officials estimate that nearly 500,000 people have been displaced by the violence, with many seeking shelter in Beirut. Meanwhile, Hezbollah has accused Mossad of orchestrating attacks on its leadership, further fuelling tensions.
As the violence continues, regional and international powers are increasingly concerned that the conflict could expand. The United Nations Security Council is scheduled to meet to discuss the situation, with growing fears that Lebanon could face a catastrophic situation similar to that in Gaza.
(With Inputs from Reuters)
