Hezbollah's Retaliation: A New Chapter in Middle Eastern Tensions

Iran-backed Hezbollah attacked Israeli artillery positions with rockets after pager blasts, believed to be orchestrated by Mossad, wounded thousands in Lebanon. The explosions raised the prospect of a wider Middle East war. The death toll rose to 12, including two children, and nearly 3,000 were injured.

In a significant escalation of Middle Eastern tensions, Iran-backed Hezbollah attacked Israeli artillery positions with rockets on Wednesday. This marks the first strike since pager blasts, allegedly orchestrated by Israel's Mossad, wounded thousands in Lebanon.

The explosions, which injured nearly 3,000 people including many Hezbollah fighters, have heightened fears of a broader conflict. The death toll has now risen to 12, including two children, Lebanese Health Minister Firass Abiad reported.

Sources indicate Mossad planted explosives in pagers imported by Hezbollah months prior to the detonation. Hezbollah's retaliation has amplified concerns about a wider Middle East war, particularly given the group's vow to continue supporting Hamas in Gaza.

(With inputs from agencies.)