Hezbollah fires 250 rockets marking the heaviest attack on Israel in months
Tensions between Israel and Hezbollah escalated, as Hezbollah fired approximately 250 rockets into Israel. The rocket barrage targeted Northern and Central Israel, causing significant damage and forcing thousands of residents into bomb shelters. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) responded with a series of airstrikes across Southern Lebanon, intensifying the deadly conflict.
"We will not tolerate these provocations," the IDF said in a statement, vowing to continue striking Hezbollah targets. The scale of Sunday’s rocket attack marks one of the heaviest barrages from Hezbollah in recent months, Associated Press reports.
Civilian casualties mount across Gaza and Lebanon
Lebanon has borne the brunt of Israeli airstrikes, with 33 people killed on Sunday, including civilians in southern villages and central Beirut. One strike leveled buildings in Beirut, killing 15 and injuring 63. Rescue workers continue to search through the rubble as hospitals report being overwhelmed with the wounded.
In Gaza, the situation remains dire as Israeli airstrikes killed at least 38 people on the same day. Officials say homes, schools, and essential infrastructure have been destroyed. "We are witnessing an unprecedented level of destruction and loss of life," said a Gaza health official, urging international intervention.
International calls for peace grow louder
The escalating violence has drawn urgent calls for restraint from the international community. The United Nations warned of a growing humanitarian crisis, highlighting the civilian toll in Gaza and Lebanon, where hospitals are running out of supplies amid widespread power outages.
Despite these appeals, neither side has shown signs of backing down. Hezbollah has pledged to continue what it calls "resistance against Israeli aggression," while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to protect Israel’s sovereignty at all costs.
"We cannot stand by as our people are attacked," Netanyahu stated.
As both sides remain locked in a cycle of retaliation, the region faces an uncertain and dangerous future. Civilians caught in the crossfire are paying the heaviest price, with no clear path to peace in sight.
Source: Associated Press, Al Jazeera, Times of Israel