Escalating Conflict: Israeli Air Strikes Target Hezbollah Strongholds in Lebanon

The Israeli military launched extensive air strikes against Iran-backed Hezbollah in Lebanon's south, Bekaa valley, and northern regions. Israeli officials emphasized that these actions aim to ensure the safety of northern Israeli residents. Hezbollah responded with rockets into Israel, escalating a conflict that runs parallel to the Gaza war.

The Israeli military has intensified its campaign against Iran-backed Hezbollah, launching broad air strikes across Lebanon's southern, eastern Bekaa Valley, and northern regions. This marks the most extensive series of strikes in nearly a year of conflict.

Addressing the press, Israeli military spokesperson Daniel Hagari confirmed that the objective is to safely return evacuated northern Israeli residents to their homes. Hagari also urged southern Lebanese residents to steer clear of Hezbollah facilities, warning that the militant group was storing weapons, including cruise missiles, in civilian areas.

Footage presented at a media briefing showed Hezbollah operatives attempting to launch missiles from a civilian home, shortly before an Israeli strike. The cross-border exchanges of heavy fire come amid ongoing tensions between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, with both conflicts escalating.

(With inputs from agencies.)