Israeli air strikes have targeted Lebanon’s eastern region near the city of Baalbek, marking a fresh escalation in cross-border tensions since the outset of Israel’s conflict with Gaza.
Overnight into Tuesday, Israeli warplanes conducted eight airstrikes, focusing on the village of Aita al-Shaab in southern Lebanon and the city of Baalbek in the east.
The ongoing conflict between Hezbollah and Israel, triggered by Israel’s military campaign in Gaza since October, has resulted in frequent exchanges of fire. While most strikes have been concentrated along the border areas, recent weeks have witnessed Israeli attacks extending further north, sparking concerns of a wider confrontation.
In response to Israeli actions, Hezbollah announced the launch of “more than a hundred katyusha rockets” targeting two military bases on Tuesday morning. The group cited Israeli attacks on Lebanese territories, including near Baalbek, and the resulting civilian casualties as reasons for its retaliatory measures.
Monday’s air strikes near Baalbek claimed the life of one individual, marking the second raid on the Hezbollah stronghold since the commencement of cross-border hostilities. The situation remains tense as both sides continue to engage in military actions, heightening fears of further escalation.