What happened

A barrage of approximately 20 rockets was launched from Lebanon towards northern Israel shortly before midnight on Friday, causing damage but no injuries, the Israeli military reported. Several rockets struck the communities of Manara and Dovev. In response, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) shelled the launch sites. Additionally, a “suspicious aerial target” was intercepted by air defenses over the northern community of Dishon, making it the second such interception of the day.

Why it matters

This latest barrage highlights the escalating tension along Israel’s northern border with Lebanon, with fears that it could escalate into a full-scale conflict. The attacks underscore the continuous threat posed by Hezbollah, a terrorist organization backed by Iran, which has already led to the significant displacement of residents and necessitated robust defensive measures from Israel’s military forces.

Israel’s Response

Israel launched retaliatory strikes aimed at Hezbollah facilities and infrastructure. Fighter jets targeted buildings used by Hezbollah in southern Lebanon’s Souaneh, Ramyeh, and Yaroun. Additionally, a drone strike successfully targeted a group of Hezbollah operatives in Hanine. The IDF released footage documenting the latter strike, signaling Israel’s commitment to defending its sovereignty and ensuring the safety of its citizens.

Continued Destabilization Along the Border

This marks the second time the northern community of Dovev was hit on Friday, following an earlier anti-tank missile attack by Hezbollah that damaged a home. Ongoing attacks have necessitated the evacuation of Dovev’s residents amidst continuing violence. Earlier, Israeli fighter jets also targeted a building in Maroun al-Ras, pinpointing Hezbollah operatives and attacking another building used by the terror group in Mays al-Jabal.

Context

Since October 8, Hezbollah-led forces have persistently attacked Israeli communities and military posts along the border, citing support for actions in Gaza amidst ongoing conflict sparked by Hamas’s mass-scale cross-border attack which resulted in the tragic death of 1,200 Israelis, predominantly civilians. This cycle of violence accounts for 10 civilian and 14 IDF soldier and reservist fatalities on the Israeli side, alongside attacks from Syria which, thankfully, caused no injuries.

Broader Implications

Hezbollah has reported the death of 313 operatives throughout these skirmishes, mostly within Lebanon as well as in Syria. Other losses in Lebanon include 61 operatives from various terror groups, a Lebanese soldier, and numerous civilians. The persistent violence echoes the chilling prospects of another comprehensive conflict akin to the 2006 war between Hezbollah and Israel.

This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.