Israel strikes Lebanon in self-defence, Hezbollah retaliates with 300 rockets | Top 10 Points

New Delhi: An escalation in violence between Israel and Lebanon-based militant group Hezbollah unfolded today, with both sides launching large-scale military operations. Hezbollah, an Iran-backed organization, claimed responsibility for firing over 320 Katyusha rockets targeting key Israeli military positions.

In response, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) initiated pre-emptive airstrikes on Hezbollah targets in Lebanon. The IDF reported that these strikes were launched after detecting preparations by Hezbollah for large-scale attacks on Israeli soil. Israeli Air Force (IAF) fighter jets were deployed to neutralize the imminent threat, focusing on Hezbollah positions that posed a direct danger to Israeli civilians.

The IDF claimed that its fighter jets successfully destroyed thousands of Hezbollah rocket launchers located in southern Lebanon. These launchers were reportedly aimed at northern and central Israel, with the potential to cause significant harm.

🚨🇮🇱🇱🇧ISRAEL ANNOUNCES FURTHER STRIKES ON LEBANON

The IDF said it was continuing to target Hezbollah rocket launch sites in several areas of southern Lebanon as locals reported blasts near the City of Naqoura.

Sources: @sentdefender, IDF https://t.co/7qkSufGMMg pic.twitter.com/MX7tWqU7LX

— Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) August 25, 2024

Tensions escalate after assassination of Hezbollah commander

This latest military escalation comes on the heels of rising tensions between the two sides, exacerbated by the assassination of Hezbollah military commander Fuad Shukr last month. Hezbollah and its regional ally, Iran, had vowed retaliation, calling the assassination a "direct provocation" and an "act of war." 

Hezbollah launches rockets at barracks

Hezbollah stated that it had initiated an air attack using a large number of drones targeting deep into Israeli territory. Additionally, the group launched rockets at various Israeli positions, barracks, and Iron Dome defense platforms, warning that military operations would continue for an extended period.

Israel declares state of emergency

In response to the escalating conflict, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu convened a security cabinet meeting at 0400 GMT. Defense Minister Yoav Gallant declared a state of emergency across the country, granting the IDF expanded authority to impose restrictions on the civilian population for the next 48 hours.

Key points:

1. Hezbollah launches over 320 Katyusha rockets at Israeli military sites.
2. IDF responds with pre-emptive airstrikes on Hezbollah targets in Lebanon.
3. Israeli jets destroy thousands of Hezbollah rocket launchers aimed at Israel.
4. Tensions rise following the assassination of Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr.
5. Hezbollah initiates drone attacks and rocket strikes on Israeli positions.
6. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu convenes a security cabinet meeting.
7. Defense Minister Gallant declares a state of emergency across Israel.
8. IDF expands its authority to impose civilian restrictions for 48 hours.
9. Ben Gurion International Airport announces flight delays and diversions.
10. The U.S. reaffirms its support for Israel's right to self-defense.

The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah has intensified, raising fears of a full-scale war in Lebanon. With daily exchanges of fire across the Israel-Lebanon border, the situation remains volatile.