Tensions between Israel and Hezbollah have escalated dramatically following a deadly rocket attack on July 27, 2024, that killed 12 children and teenagers and injured 35 others in Majdal Shams, a Druze village in the Israeli-controlled Golan Heights. The attack, which targeted a soccer field, has been described as the deadliest on Israeli soil since the start of the conflict with Hezbollah nearly a decade ago.Israel and the United States have accused Hezbollah of launching the attack, a claim the Lebanese Shia militant group vehemently denies. In response, Israel has launched multiple airstrikes on Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon. The situation escalated further on July 29 when Israel conducted a drone attack in southern Lebanon, resulting in two deaths and three injuries, including a child. This marks the first deadly strike by Israel on Lebanese soil since the July 27 incident.The Israeli Security Cabinet has authorized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant to determine the ‘method and timing’ of a more significant retaliation. Netanyahu has vowed that ‘Israel will not forget this deadly attack’ and promised that ‘Hezbollah will pay a heavy price’. Israeli Foreign Minister Yisrael Katz went further, stating that ‘Hezbollah has crossed the red line’ and that ‘a full-scale war with Hezbollah is at the doorstep’.The international community has responded with calls for restraint and de-escalation. The United States has condemned the attack and is working to find a diplomatic solution. The United Nations and European Union have also called for restraint. However, Iran has warned Israel that any new military adventures in Lebanon could have unpredictable consequences.As tensions continue to rise, there are growing fears of a broader regional conflict. The Lebanese army has reportedly mobilized troops, while all flights have been suspended at Beirut International Airport. The situation remains highly volatile, with both sides exchanging fire and the potential for further escalation looming large.
Key points
- A rocket attack on July 27 killed 12 children and teenagers in the Israeli-controlled Golan Heights, prompting accusations against Hezbollah.
- Israel has launched retaliatory airstrikes and a drone attack on southern Lebanon, escalating tensions with Hezbollah.
- The Israeli government has authorized a significant response, raising fears of a broader regional conflict.
- International actors are calling for restraint and working towards de-escalation.
Contradictions👾While Israel and the US have accused Hezbollah of the attack, Hezbollah has consistently denied any involvement.
The Lebanese Foreign Minister has also denied Hezbollah’s responsibility.
