Hezbollah Responds to Israeli Strikes with Quality Missiles Towards Haifa
In an unprecedented escalation that warns of a wider confrontation on the northern front, Hezbollah announced its targeting of the Haifa naval base in northern Israel with missiles it described as "quality," confirming that the attack was in response to the intensive Israeli strikes that hit several areas in Lebanon, primarily the southern suburbs of Beirut.
* Missiles on Haifa … and Israeli Interceptions
The party clarified in a statement that the operation was carried out with a volley of advanced missiles, within what it said was the twelfth attack in one day.
In response, the Israeli army announced that it detected the launch of several projectiles around eight in the evening, noting that the majority were intercepted.
The escalation also included the party's announcement of targeting an Israeli gathering in the border town of Metula.
* Netanyahu Promises a “Bigger and Stronger” Response
For his part, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu considered that Hezbollah made a "very big mistake" by attacking Israel, pledging a strong response.
He stated that the Lebanese government and the Lebanese people must realize that the party “is dragging them into a war that is not theirs,” as he put it.
* Devastating Airstrike on Baalbek
In a notable field development, reporters reported that Israel launched an airstrike on the Al-Asirah neighborhood in the city of Baalbek in eastern Lebanon, targeting a residential building near the Alou _ Nahle road complex, which led to its complete destruction.
The Lebanese news agency confirmed casualties, while rescue teams rushed to the scene, amid search operations for those trapped under the rubble.
The Israeli army also issued evacuation warnings for 16 Lebanese villages and towns in anticipation of imminent strikes.
* “Revenge for Khamenei’s Death”
This escalation comes after Hezbollah announced two days ago the start of missile launches towards northern Israel, in a move it said was in revenge for the death of Iranian leader Ali Khamenei.
Despite the Lebanese government's announcement of a ban on the military and security activities of the party, the latter continued to launch missiles and drones, especially following the targeting of the southern suburbs.
* Threat of “Open War”
Reuters reported a senior party leader threatening to go to “open war” if Israel chose this path, indicating the possibility of the confrontation widening.
* Widespread Displacement in the South
This escalation coincided with a large movement of displacement from southern Lebanese villages, with the United Nations estimating the number of displaced persons at around 30,000 in the past few days, reflecting the extent of public concern about the situation slipping into a comprehensive confrontation.
Amid “quality” missiles, devastating airstrikes, and mutual threats, the region appears to be at a dangerous crossroads that may determine the course of the next phase, amid ongoing strikes and responses without clear indicators of de-escalation.
