Hezbollah retaliates with 140 rockets after Israeli airstrikes on southern Lebanon, leaving the region on edge once more.
At a Glance
- Hezbollah launched 140 rockets at northern Israel.
- Retaliation followed Israeli airstrikes on Hezbollah locations in southern Lebanon.
- Israeli military reported targeted rocket attacks along the border with Lebanon.
- Both sides have been exchanging fire almost daily since October 8.
Rockets Pound Northern Israel
Hezbollah launched 140 rockets into northern Israel, targeting Israeli air defense bases and the headquarters of an armored brigade. The attack was in response to Israeli airstrikes on Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon. This escalation follows a pattern of mutual retaliation between Israel and Hezbollah that has defined their contentious relationship over the years.
The rockets targeted sites along the border with Lebanon in three waves, causing fire crews to work rigorously to extinguish blazes from the debris. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed that some of the 120 missiles launched were intercepted. Despite this, the IDF did not provide specific details on casualties or damage.
Hezbollah hits northern Israel with 140 rockets https://t.co/3hMimSgx2p
— The Washington Times (@WashTimes) September 20, 2024
Israel’s Response to the Attacks
In retaliation, Israel struck multiple areas across southern Lebanon, targeting Hezbollah infrastructure. These strikes occurred after the first bout of rocket fire and continued the cycle of violence that has characterized their hostilities. Hezbollah’s attacks specifically aimed at air defense bases and an Israeli armored brigade headquarters signal the group’s tactical precision and readiness to escalate.
Israel said ”its military had struck ‘hundreds of rocket launcher barrels’ in southern Lebanon, saying that they ‘were ready to be used in the immediate future to fire toward Israeli territory.’
Lebanese sources report that at least 20 people were killed due to explosions in communication devices amid the broader conflict. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed concern, stating that the destruction of these communications could undermine ongoing ceasefire efforts between Israel and Hamas.
A Dangerous Pattern Resumes
Hezbollah and Israeli forces have exchanged fire almost daily for over a year, with the latest volleys marking a significant intensification. Nasrallah vowed continued strikes despite sabotage efforts targeting Hezbollah’s communication devices. Such persistent conflict raises the specter of an all-out war unfolding across the region.
The concern is amplified by Hezbollah’s formidable capabilities and Israel’s historical lessons from past conflicts. Israel continues to amass a powerful fighting force on its northern border, signaling readiness for further escalation if necessary. The ongoing exchanges exacerbate fears of the conflict engulfing the entire region.
