Israel conducted a deadly air raid in Sidon, Lebanon, resulting in the killing of Hamas official Samer al-Hajj. This attack comes amidst rising tensions in the region, with anticipation of Hezbollah’s retaliation for the assassination of its commander, Fuad Shukr, in Beirut. Al-Hajj was based in a Palestinian refugee camp near Sidon and was described by Hamas as a “martyr,” while Israel labeled him as a commander responsible for attacks on Israel from Lebanon.
These air raids in Sidon are part of Israel’s increased attacks in Lebanon, which also targeted border towns and villages. Hezbollah has vowed to respond to the assassination of Shukr, with Iran expected to launch its own retaliatory attack against Israel. Hezbollah has been engaging in clashes with Israel across the border and claimed multiple attacks, including launching rockets and targeting buildings used by Israeli troops.
The assassination of Shukr has heightened fears of escalation between Hezbollah and Israel, with both sides prepared for potential conflict. Hezbollah’s leader, Hasan Nasallah, warned that retaliation for Shukr’s killing is inevitable. The killing of al-Hajj, located far from the border, is likely to further escalate tensions between the two sides. This air raid in Sidon signals Israel’s deeper incursion into Lebanon and comes at a critical time as Hezbollah plans a major retaliation against Israel. The ongoing hostilities have forced residents on both sides to flee the border region as the threat of conflict looms.
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