Israel launched a new series of attacks in southern Lebanon last night, signalling a new era in the Middle East conflict.
The Israeli army said it targeted Hezbollah infrastructure and weapons storage facilities after anti-tank missiles were fired from southern Lebanon into Israeli territory, wounding at least eight people.
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The attack came after two days of attacks on pagers, walkie-talkies and other wireless communication devices used by Hezbollah members that killed dozens and injured thousands in explosions that were believed to be Israeli-led attacks, a Hezbollah official told The Associated Press.
Meanwhile, Israeli authorities have reportedly expanded their goals, including encouraging residents to return to their largely displaced northern communities. Some 60,000 Israelis have become internally displaced since Israel began its war against Hamas and other Iran-allied militant groups.
US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin met with his Israeli counterpart last night and reiterated America’s unwavering support for Israel, but the White House is also seeking de-escalation to prevent further escalation in the region.
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Regarding de-escalation, Lebanon’s Foreign Minister Abdullah Bou Habib has argued that his country cannot negotiate with Hezbollah because “retaliation is mandatory for them.”
“We tried to do something, but I don’t know how much power we have to stop them,” Habib said. “And why is there resistance in the south? It’s because Israel is occupying it.”
