Israel intensified its bombardment of northern Gaza and southern Lebanon in a widening war with Iran-allied militant groups across the region. A strike on a mosque in Deir al-Balah, Gaza, killed at least 19 people. Israel opened a new front in Lebanon against Hezbollah, resulting in a confirmation of a Hezbollah attack on the northern city of Haifa. The conflict risks drawing in the United States, which has provided support to Israel. Iran-allied militant groups in Syria, Iraq, and Yemen have joined in with long-distance strikes on Israel. Israel is on high alert as rallies mark the anniversary of a previous attack.
The airstrikes targeted Beirut suburbs, with Israel confirming strikes on Hezbollah strongholds. Hezbollah has been firing rockets into Israel in support of the Palestinians. Lebanon reported casualties from the strikes, with airstrikes in the town of Qamatiyeh killing six people, including three children. The National News Agency reported more than 30 strikes overnight, while Israel’s military said about 130 projectiles crossed into Israeli territory. The conflict worsened after Israel launched a limited ground operation into southern Lebanon following attacks on Hezbollah leaders.
In Gaza, Israel targeted a mosque where displaced people were sheltering, resulting in multiple casualties. A separate strike on a school-turned-shelter also led to fatalities. The Israeli military announced a new air and ground offensive in Jabaliya, northern Gaza, aiming to drive militants from heavily destroyed areas. Evacuation orders were issued, with up to 300,000 people estimated to have remained in the area. Frantic residents fled as airstrikes intensified, leading to more civilian casualties and destruction in the region.
The United Kingdom advised against non-essential travel to Israel due to the violent clashes in the region, while also advising against travel to certain parts of northern and southern Israel, West Bank, and Gaza Strip. The UK had previously advised against all travel to Lebanon. French President Emmanuel Macron reiterated a call for a partial arms embargo on Israel, prompting a response from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The leaders later agreed to promote dialogue on the matter, acknowledging their divergence of views. The conflict continues to escalate with no immediate resolution in sight.
The ongoing conflict has resulted in a high number of casualties on both sides, with reports of civilians, medics, and fighters being killed or displaced. The war between Israel and Iran-allied militant groups has expanded to include multiple territories, posing a threat to regional stability. The heavy bombardment and ground operations have created a humanitarian crisis, with thousands of people being driven from their homes. The international community is closely monitoring the situation, with calls for de-escalation and dialogue to prevent further bloodshed and destruction.
Overall, the situation in Gaza and Lebanon remains tense, with airstrikes, ground operations, and rocket attacks continuing to cause devastation and loss of life. The involvement of multiple militant groups and foreign powers has complicated the conflict, making it difficult to reach a peaceful resolution. As the fighting intensifies, the need for humanitarian aid and diplomatic intervention becomes more critical to prevent further escalation and protect civilian lives. The conflict in the region shows no signs of abating, signaling a long and arduous road ahead for all parties involved.
