The Israel Defense Forces have launched retaliatory strikes against the Iranian-backed terror group Hezbollah in Lebanon, following approximately 115 aerial attacks launched by Hezbollah towards civilian areas in northern Israel. The IDF has deployed defensive arrays in northern Israel and is on high preparedness to thwart threats targeting the area. Air defense systems have intercepted multiple projectiles over Haifa, Israel. Strikes against Hezbollah will continue and intensify, as the Israeli Air Force conducted a precise strike on Hamas terrorists in the northern Gaza Strip, taking steps to mitigate the risk of harm to civilians.
Israel’s Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant has been in communication with U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin regarding developments in northern Israel. Gallant briefed Austin on the operation conducted by the IDF to eliminate the head of Hezbollah’s operations unit and commander of the Radwan Forces, Ibrahim Aqil, who has been involved in planning terror attacks against Israel and is wanted by the United States for the killing of its citizens. Gallant also discussed Israel’s defensive positions and operations against ongoing strikes by Hezbollah in northern cities and civilian areas, with the goal of ensuring the safe return of Israel’s northern communities to their homes.
The IDF continues its activities in Gaza against Hamas, with a commitment to freeing over 100 hostages still held by the terrorist group. Gallant expressed his appreciation to Austin and U.S. leadership for their reaffirmed commitment to Israel during this challenging time. Israeli airstrikes on terrorist targets and rocket launchers in southern Lebanon have been ongoing, with the IDF utilizing precise munitions, aerial surveillance, and additional intelligence information to minimize civilian casualties. The IDF is maintaining a high level of preparedness to defend against threats targeting northern Israel.
Hezbollah has identified a second top commander killed in an Israeli airstrike in Lebanon. The commander, Ibrahim Aqil, was a senior Hezbollah leader responsible for orchestrating multiple terror attacks against Israel and is wanted by the United States. The airstrikes on terrorist targets in Lebanon will continue and intensify, as Israel’s defensive position remains strong against threats from Hezbollah. The IDF is committed to ensuring the safety of Israel’s northern communities and will take necessary actions to protect civilian areas from further attacks.
The ongoing airstrikes in Gaza against Hamas and in Lebanon against Hezbollah are part of Israel’s efforts to combat terrorism and ensure the security of its citizens. Defense Minister Gallant’s discussions with U.S. Secretary of Defense Austin highlight the close cooperation between the two countries in addressing threats in the region. The IDF’s use of precise strikes and defensive measures demonstrates their commitment to protecting civilians while targeting terrorist operatives. The situation in northern Israel remains tense, but Israel is determined to defend its territory and citizens against threats from Hezbollah and other terror groups in the region.
