Israel launched airstrikes on southern Lebanon today, asserting it thwarted an Iran-backed assassination plot. This follows explosions of Hezbollah radios and previous detonations of booby-trapped pagers, heightening fears of a larger conflict.
The sophisticated attacks on Hezbollah’s communications systems have caused significant disruption in Lebanon, prompting concerns of an impending full-scale war, reminiscent of the last major conflict 18 years ago.
Hezbollah’s hand-held radios exploded on Wednesday, marking the deadliest day in southern Lebanon since cross-border clashes began alongside the Gaza conflict nearly a year ago. The day prior, hundreds of pagers used by Hezbollah exploded simultaneously, resulting in 12 deaths, including two children, and nearly 3,000 injuries.
While Israel has not directly addressed the attacks, sources indicate they were conducted by its intelligence agency, Mossad.
According to Israeli officials, the conflict with Hezbollah, like its Gaza operations, forms part of a broader regional confrontation with Iran, which supports both Hezbollah and other militant groups in Syria, Yemen, and Iraq.
On Thursday, Israeli security forces reported the arrest of an Israeli businessman last month who allegedly discussed plans to assassinate Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the Defence Minister, or the head of the Shin Bet security agency during meetings in Iran. Last week, Shin Bet uncovered another plot involving Hezbollah targeting former Defence Minister Moshe Ya’alon.
Recent Israeli actions include strikes on Hezbollah positions in Chihine, Tayibe, Blida, Meiss El Jabal, Aitaroun, Kfarkela, and a weapons storage facility in Khiam. Reports indicate that Israeli civilians were injured by anti-tank missile fire from Lebanon, though this remains unconfirmed.
Hezbollah responded with approximately 20 projectiles into Israel on Wednesday, most of which were intercepted by air defense systems.
Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant announced that the conflict has entered a new phase, with increased military resources and units being deployed to the northern border. This includes the elite 98th Division, known for its commando and paratroop capabilities.
The ongoing conflict has resulted in significant evacuations on both sides of the border, with Israeli officials facing growing pressure to ensure the safe return of evacuees.
