BEIRUT, Lebanon – Israel launched a heavy attack on neighboring Lebanon, marking the longest assault since the beginning of the Gaza war. The attack resulted in the death of at least one Hezbollah fighter and three civilians, further escalating tensions between the two adversaries.
Israeli fighter jets initiated a series of strikes in Lebanese territory, according to Israeli Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari. The strikes were announced as a response to an attack from Lebanon into the northern Israeli town of Safed, which resulted in the death of an Israeli woman and injuries to at least eight others.
Hezbollah, an Iranian-aligned paramilitary and Lebanon’s most powerful political group, did not immediately claim responsibility for the attack. The organization has joined other groups in supporting Hamas by targeting Israel and U.S. interests in the region since Oct. 7.
The ongoing exchange of fire has led to casualties on both sides of the border, with thousands of residents fleeing the affected regions. Diplomats from the United States, Britain, France, and the European Union have engaged in efforts to prevent a full-scale war, but Israeli officials have repeatedly emphasized the dwindling time for diplomatic solutions.
There have been discussions around demarcating the border between Lebanon and Israel, but progress has been hindered by the ongoing conflict in Gaza. France has proposed implementing a U.N. resolution for the withdrawal of armed groups from the border area, but discussions for a cease-fire are at a standstill.
The attacks in Lebanon indicate a shift in focus as the conflict in Gaza begins to slow. With tensions rising, Israeli minister Benny Gantz threatened to expand the assault beyond Hezbollah targets near the border if necessary, holding Lebanon’s government accountable for allowing attacks to occur from its territory.
The situation remains complex, with ongoing efforts to negotiate a cease-fire in Gaza while addressing the escalating hostilities between Israel and Lebanon. The region is on edge as the potential for further violence looms.