Tensions escalated on both sides of the Israeli-Lebanese border as Israeli leaders vowed to retaliate against Hezbollah following a deadly rocket attack. The attack, which occurred on Saturday, resulted in the tragic deaths of 12 children and teenagers in the Druse Arab village of Majdal Shams in the Israeli-controlled Golan Heights.
Hezbollah, an Iran-backed militia operating in southern Lebanon, has been launching rockets into Israel for months. While Hezbollah denied responsibility for the recent strike, both Israel and the United States attributed the attack to the group, citing the rocket’s origin from Hezbollah-controlled territory.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who visited the attack site, declared that a severe response was imminent. During his visit, local residents expressed their frustrations over the lack of security, with some even labeling him as a “murderer.”
Following a cabinet meeting, Netanyahu and Israel’s defense minister were authorized to determine the nature and timing of the military response. The looming threat of a significant retaliation has sparked concerns that the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah could escalate into a full-scale war.
Hezbollah’s actions stem from their support for Hamas, another Iran-backed group, in response to an earlier deadly attack on southern Israel. The use of rockets, antitank missiles, and drones by Hezbollah has further heightened tensions in the region.
