Israel Launches Extensive Airstrikes on Hezbollah Targets in Lebanon

 In its most comprehensive wave of airstrikes in nearly a year, the Israeli military targeted Iran-backed Hezbollah across Lebanon, hitting areas in the south, eastern Bekaa Valley, and northern region near Syria.

The strikes come amid escalating cross-border exchanges of fire between Israel and Hezbollah, alongside the ongoing conflict with Hamas in Gaza.

Israeli military spokesperson Daniel Hagari addressed concerns about a potential ground incursion into Lebanon, stating, "we will do whatever is needed" to ensure the safe return of evacuated northern Israeli residents.

Tension has escalated in the past few days in Hezbollah especially with the pager attack

Hagari warned residents of south Lebanon to stay away from Hezbollah posts, citing the group's practice of storing weapons, including cruise missiles, in civilian homes and buildings.

"Hezbollah is endangering you. Endangering you and your families," Hagari emphasized.

During a media briefing, Hagari presented aerial footage of Hezbollah operatives attempting to launch cruise missiles from a civilian house in Lebanon, followed by an Israeli strike moments before launch.

Israel initiated airstrikes after detecting Hezbollah's intention to fire on Israel, Hagari explained.

Reuters reporters in Tyre reported hearing warplanes flying low over southern Lebanon and multiple airstrikes nearby.

Hezbollah's al-Manar television reported Israeli airstrikes targeting outskirts of towns and villages in southern Lebanon and the Bekaa Valley.

Airstrikes also hit the Hermel area in northern Lebanon, according to al-Manar.

The exchange of heavy fire between Hezbollah and Israel continued into Sunday, with Hezbollah sending rockets deep into northern Israeli territory.

Hezbollah deputy chief Naim Qassem declared at a commander's funeral, "We have entered a new phase, the title of which is the open-ended battle of reckoning."

Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant vowed to continue operations until it's safe for evacuated residents to return.

Hezbollah has pledged to fight on until a ceasefire in the Gaza war.

The conflict escalated sharply after Hezbollah opened a second front against Israel in support of Palestinians in Gaza.

Earlier, thousands of Hezbollah members' pagers and walkie-talkies were disrupted in an attack widely attributed to Israel, though unconfirmed.

Israel initiated airstrikes after detecting Hezbollah's intention to fire on Israel, says Hagari

The extensive airstrikes demonstrate Israel's resolve to counter Hezbollah's aggression.

As tensions rise, concerns grow about the conflict's humanitarian impact and regional implications.

With both sides dug in, a prolonged conflict seems increasingly likely.

The international community watches anxiously, urging restraint and a peaceful resolution.

But for now, the battle rages on.