Israeli President Isaac Herzog defended the deadly escalation in violence against Hezbollah, blaming the militant group’s rocket attacks for displacing 100,000 Israelis from their homes. Israel targeted senior Hezbollah commanders in Beirut and carried out a high-tech attack in Lebanon that killed many militants. Herzog denied trying to escalate into war, emphasizing the desire for a diplomatic solution.
Tensions in the region continue to rise, with Israeli forces raiding Al Jazeera’s bureau in the West Bank. The U.N. special coordinator for Lebanon warned of a potential catastrophe and urged both sides to seek a diplomatic resolution. Iranian Ambassador to Lebanon, Mojtaba Amani, expressed support for Lebanon after being wounded in Israeli bombings.
Hezbollah launched rockets deeper into Israel, prompting Israeli airstrikes on Hezbollah positions in Lebanon. Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant stated that almost 300 targets were hit and vowed to continue until it was safe for evacuated residents to return. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized the severity of the blows against Hezbollah.
Israel also shut down Al Jazeera’s bureau in the West Bank and reports indicate that half of the hostages held by Hamas in Gaza are dead. Netanyahu denied hindering a potential hostage deal and blamed Hamas for demanding revisions to a proposed cease-fire outline. The situation remains tense as both sides continue to engage in violent actions.
Photo credit
www.usatoday.com