Israel Fires Artillery into Southern Lebanon After Hezbollah Attack
Israel responded with artillery fire into southern Lebanon on Sunday following an attack by Hezbollah on three Israeli military positions in the disputed Shebaa Farms. The exchange of fire has raised tensions in the region, but there have been no immediate reports of casualties.
Hezbollah’s Attack in Solidarity with Palestinians
Hezbollah, a powerful armed party supported by Iran, claimed responsibility for launching guided rockets and artillery onto three Israeli posts in the Shebaa Farms. They stated that the attack was carried out “in solidarity” with the Palestinian people.
Israeli Retaliation and Drone Strike
In response to the Hezbollah attack, the Israeli military fired artillery into Lebanon, targeting the area from where the cross-border mortar fire originated. Additionally, an Israeli drone struck a Hezbollah post in the Har Dov area of Shebaa. The IDF spokesperson, Daniel Hagari, confirmed that there was no further threat in the area, but the military remains on high alert.
The Shebaa Farms Dispute
The Shebaa Farms, a 15-square-mile (39-square-km) patch of land, has been under Israeli control since 1967. However, both Syria and Lebanon claim it as Lebanese territory. The United Nations peacekeeping mission in southern Lebanon, known as UNIFIL, is monitoring the situation and working to contain any escalation.
UNIFIL’s Efforts and Concerns
UNIFIL reported detecting rockets fired from southeast Lebanon towards Israeli-occupied territory, as well as artillery fire from Israel into Lebanon in response. The mission has enhanced its presence in southern Lebanon to address the developments in Israel and Gaza. The U.N.’s special coordinator for Lebanon, Joanna Wronecka, expressed deep concern over the exchange of fire and called for efforts to protect Lebanon and its people from further escalation.
Hezbollah’s Perspective
Hezbollah, which holds significant influence in southern Lebanon, claimed to be in direct contact with leaders of Palestinian “resistance” groups. They viewed the Palestinian attacks on Israel as a decisive response to the continued occupation and a message to those seeking normalization with Israel.
In conclusion, the recent exchange of fire between Israel and Hezbollah has heightened tensions in the region. Israel responded with artillery fire into southern Lebanon after Hezbollah targeted their military positions. The disputed Shebaa Farms remain a point of contention between Israel, Lebanon, and Syria. The United Nations peacekeeping mission is closely monitoring the situation to prevent further escalation.
