Rising Tensions Signal Potential Full-Scale War Between Lebanon and Israel
Amid the extensive attacks in Gaza, concerns are growing about a major war between Lebanon and Israel. Limited skirmishes along the border have been ongoing for several months, but this week they have intensified. Both sides are now issuing warnings of full-scale attacks, raising fears that this escalating rhetoric could lead to a broader conflict.
Since October 7th of last year, Israel's military aggression and acts of genocide in Gaza have persisted, alongside ongoing clashes with Hezbollah, an armed group allied with Hamas in Lebanon. Last week, these clashes intensified further, with Israel striking deeper into Lebanese territory, heightening fears of a broader conflict.
Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah has repeatedly declared unwavering support for Gaza. Recently, Hezbollah has increased its attacks on the Israeli border, launching consecutive drone strikes on Israeli military bases.
Hezbollah described these attacks as retaliation for Israel's severe assaults on Lebanon. On Tuesday, May 4th, Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) Chief Lieutenant General Herzi Halevi stated that they are on the verge of making a final decision regarding Hezbollah's daily attacks on northern Israel.
"We are close to a decision, and the IDF is fully prepared," Halevi said. "We have been responding to attacks for eight months, and Hezbollah has paid a high price. Despite this, they have increased their strength in recent days, and we have undergone highly effective training. We are now ready to launch attacks in the north," he added.
On the same day, Hezbollah's Deputy Leader Sheikh Naim Qassem declared that Hezbollah is also ready for a full-scale war with Israel.
"Hezbollah is prepared for war and will not let Israel secure a victory. Any attack on Lebanon will lead Israel to face destruction. If Israel wants a full-scale war, we are ready," Qassem said.
In response, during a visit to the Lebanon border on Wednesday, May 5th, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu threatened significant retaliation, stating, "If anyone thinks they can harm us and we will sit quietly, they are making a grave mistake. Israel is prepared to take tough measures at the Lebanon border. We will restore security in the north by any means necessary."
Hezbollah has been fighting against Israel since 2006, but recent clashes have intensified, forcing thousands of people from the border regions to flee.
Since October 7th, Israeli attacks have resulted in the deaths of nearly 300 Hezbollah fighters and 80 civilians. The IDF claims that attacks originating from Lebanese territory have killed 18 Israeli soldiers and 10 civilians.
On Monday, June 3rd, a fire broke out in northern Israel following a Hezbollah rocket attack, leading to a wildfire. The Times of Israel reported that on Tuesday, the IDF launched its own missiles to intercept Hezbollah rockets in the northern region.
An Israeli reserve soldier in the city of Safed was injured by shrapnel after an IDF missile destroyed a Hezbollah rocket, igniting a fire in the Biriya forest.
Ten fire brigade units and firefighting aircraft worked together to extinguish the blaze. The provincial council confirmed that the fire caused no damage.