Escalation in Lebanon: Israel and Hezbollah's Intensifying Conflict

Israel and Hezbollah have intensified their conflict, with Israel carrying out its heaviest bombardment in nearly a year. Hezbollah responded with rocket attacks deep into northern Israel. The violence, triggered by Hezbollah's solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza, risks escalating further in the region.

Israel and Hezbollah exchanged intense fire on Sunday, marking the most severe bombardment in nearly a year of hostilities across Lebanon's south. Israeli airstrikes targeted Hezbollah, which retaliated with rockets aimed at northern Israel. Defence Minister Yoav Gallant stated that attacks will continue until it's safe for evacuated northern residents to return.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu asserted that Israel has inflicted severe blows on Hezbollah and promised further action if necessary. The conflict escalated after Hezbollah opened a second front in support of Palestinians facing an Israeli offensive in Gaza. On Saturday, the Israeli military struck about 290 targets, including Hezbollah rocket launchers.

Air raid sirens were constant in Israel, with 150 rockets intercepted overnight. Hezbollah attacked an Israeli barracks and a facility with drones. Wider regional tensions are mounting, with attacks launched from Iraq in support of Lebanon. The UN has cautioned that military solutions won't ensure safety for either side.

(With inputs from agencies.)