Israel and Hezbollah Exchange Fire: Rocket Attacks and Drone Strikes Escalate

Aug 19, 2024, 05:36 PM

In a significant escalation of hostilities, over 20 rockets were fired from southern Lebanon towards northern Israel, targeting areas such as Kiryat Shmona, the Upper Galilee, and the Western Galilee. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reported that the rockets were launched by Hezbollah, with several being intercepted by Israel's Iron Dome defense system. No injuries were reported from these rocket attacks. In response, the Israeli Air Force conducted airstrikes on Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon, including the Qabrikha area, targeting rocket launch sites. The conflict intensified as Hezbollah launched drones into northern Israel, resulting in the death of an Israeli soldier and injuries to others in the town of Ya'ara. The IDF retaliated with further airstrikes on Hezbollah military infrastructure in southern Lebanon, including in the towns of Ayta ash-Shab, Beit Lif, and Houla. The situation escalated further with Israeli airstrikes targeting Hezbollah weapons depots in the Beqaa Valley, northeastern Lebanon, causing significant secondary explosions. Additional reports indicated rockets landing in the Beit Hillel area and a Hezbollah drone attack on the Western Galilee.