Israel and Hezbollah exchanged hundreds of strikes on Sunday, intensifying a situation that appears to be heading towards all-out war after months of rising tensions.
Hezbollah fired over 100 rockets into northern Israel, including near Haifa, prompting air raid sirens and forcing thousands into shelters. Israel’s military claimed these rockets targeted civilian areas, marking an escalation from previous attacks that focused on military targets.
One rocket hit Kiryat Bialik, injuring at least three and igniting fires in nearby buildings and vehicles. Witnesses described chaotic scenes as residents sought safety.
In response, Israel launched hundreds of strikes in southern Lebanon, reportedly hitting around 400 militant sites, including rocket launchers. The Israeli military claimed this was to prevent larger attacks and stated that hundreds of thousands of civilians in northern Israel were affected.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu asserted that Israel would take necessary actions to ensure security, emphasizing that no country can tolerate attacks on its cities.
Hezbollah announced the use of new missiles in retaliation against Israeli airstrikes, including one that killed at least 45 people in Beirut on Friday.
The ongoing conflict, which began during the Gaza war nearly a year ago, has resulted in significant casualties and displacements on both sides.
