Hostilities between Hezbollah and Israel escalated on Sunday as both sides exchanged heavy fire across Lebanon’s southern border. Israeli airstrikes, some of the most intense in nearly a year, targeted Hezbollah positions, while the Iran-backed group launched rocket attacks on Israeli military targets in response. According to Israel’s military, approximately 290 Hezbollah targets were hit on Saturday, including rocket launchers.
Hezbollah claimed responsibility for striking Israel’s Ramat David Airbase with missiles, marking its deepest attack since hostilities began. In addition, Iran-backed Iraqi militants also claimed a drone strike on Israel early Sunday. Israeli air defenses intercepted most of the rockets and missiles, though some buildings were damaged, and a few people were treated for minor injuries.
This latest exchange follows an Israeli airstrike on Friday that killed 37 people, including senior Hezbollah figures, in a Lebanese suburb. Among the casualties were senior leaders Ibrahim Aqil and Ahmed Wahbi. Israel’s military said the strike targeted an underground meeting of Hezbollah commanders and nearly dismantled the group’s military chain of command.
Friday’s attack significantly escalated tensions, with Hezbollah retaliating by launching rockets at Israeli military facilities. Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant announced the continuation of operations until the northern residents could safely return to their homes, signaling a protracted conflict.
U.S. officials, while expressing concern over the risk of further escalation, pointed out that the killing of Hezbollah’s leadership brought “justice” to the group. However, Hezbollah remains determined to fight until Israel agrees to a ceasefire in Gaza, where conflict with Hamas rages on.
Meanwhile, Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati canceled his trip to the U.N. General Assembly in New York, as the situation worsened. Tensions remain high as both Hezbollah and Israel brace for further retaliation. Since the conflict between Hezbollah and Israel began in October, more than 740 people have died in Lebanon, marking the worst violence since the 2006 war.