Tensions have escalated once again between Israel and Lebanon as Israel’s military responded with artillery fire after a rocket was launched from southern Lebanon. This article provides an overview of the recent exchange of fire, highlighting the actions taken by both sides and the context surrounding the incident.
Rocket Launch and Israeli Response
According to Israel’s military, a rocket was launched from southern Lebanon and exploded in Israeli territory near the UN-demarcated Blue Line, which serves as the frontier between the two states. In response, Israel initiated artillery fire targeting the outskirts of the Lebanese villages of Kfar Shouba and Halta. Lebanon’s state news agency reported that more than 15 Israeli shells hit these areas.
No Claim of Responsibility
As of now, no militant groups have claimed responsibility for the rocket launch. The situation remains tense as the United Nations peacekeeping force in Lebanon, Unifil, urges all parties to exercise restraint and avoid actions that could further escalate the situation.
Recent Tensions and Previous Incidents
Tensions in the region have been on the rise in recent months. In April, the Israeli military carried out airstrikes on targets in southern Lebanon, claiming they belonged to the Palestinian militant group Hamas, after more than 30 rockets were fired from Lebanese territory towards Israel. This marked the largest barrage from Lebanon since the 2006 war between Israel and the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah.
Unifil’s Observations
Unifil reported detecting explosions near al-Majidiya, which were consistent with a possible rocket launch. They also confirmed shellfire from Israel hitting Kafr Shouba. However, there have been no immediate reports of damage or casualties.
Hezbollah’s Involvement
Hezbollah, the Iran-backed militant group based in Lebanon, has not claimed responsibility for the rocket fire. However, the group issued a statement earlier condemning recent “serious measures” taken by Israeli forces in Ghajar, including the erection of a barbed wire and construction of a cement wall. Ghajar is a contested village located on the border between Lebanon and the Israeli-occupied Syrian Golan Heights.
Recent Developments and Context
The exchange of fire comes a day after Israeli forces concluded a major operation in the Jenin refugee camp in the occupied West Bank. It also follows Israel’s complaint to the UN about Hezbollah’s presence near the Israeli-Lebanese border.
The recent rocket launch from Lebanon and Israel’s artillery response have heightened tensions in the region. With no claim of responsibility thus far, the situation remains fluid and the focus now shifts to efforts aimed at de-escalation and preventing further hostilities between the two neighboring countries.