Israel Strikes Lebanon, Targets Hezbollah Leaders After Rocket Attacks

Israel has launched retaliatory strikes against Lebanon, targeting Hezbollah positions and leaders, after the Iran-backed group fired rockets into northern Israel. The Israeli military confirmed the strikes, warning Hezbollah that it would pay a heavy price for its actions.

Tensions escalated following the rocket attacks, which marked the first major assault by Hezbollah since a ceasefire in November 2024. That ceasefire had ended over a year of hostilities.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) stated that its forces initiated strikes against Hezbollah targets throughout Lebanon in response to the rocket fire. The IDF reported hitting key Hezbollah officials in Beirut and southern Lebanon.

According to initial reports from the Lebanese Health Ministry, the Israeli strikes have resulted in at least 31 fatalities and 149 injuries. The strikes hit multiple locations in Lebanon.

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has declared Hezbollah Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah a target. Gallant's statement comes amid heightened tensions.

The IDF spokesperson, Evi Defrin, told reporters that hundreds of air force planes are simultaneously striking targets in Lebanon. Defrin said Hezbollah was aware of the consequences of its actions and would bear the cost.

Meanwhile, Hezbollah claimed responsibility for the initial rocket and drone attack on Israel. The group stated it targeted the Mishmar HaCarmel missile defense site south of Haifa in response to Israeli aggression.

General Eyal Zamir, the Israeli Chief of Staff, anticipates several days of continued fighting with Hezbollah in Lebanon. Zamir asserted that the IDF is on the offensive and prepared for sustained combat.

While the IDF is conducting extensive air strikes, a ground invasion of Lebanon is not currently planned, according to the military spokesperson.