Israel’s military has launched a preemptive strike against Hezbollah targets in Lebanon, citing “self-defense” after detecting preparations for missile launches. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) warned civilians in the area to evacuate immediately, vowing to take all necessary measures to protect Israeli citizens.
According to IDF spokesperson Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, the military identified Hezbollah’s plans to launch attacks on Israeli territory, prompting the preemptive strikes. “A short while ago, we detected Hezbollah preparing to fire missiles and rockets at Israeli territory,” Hagari said. “In response, we are striking terror targets in Lebanon to neutralize these threats.”
The military action comes on the heels of a year-long barrage of attacks by Hezbollah, which has fired over 6,700 rockets, missiles, and explosive UAVs at Israeli civilians since October 8. The attacks have displaced up to 65,000 Israelis from their homes and have been met with a strong response from the IDF.
Hezbollah’s actions have also put Lebanese civilians at risk, with the IDF warning those in areas controlled by the terror group to evacuate immediately. “Hezbollah is preparing to launch an extensive attack on Israel from right next to the homes of Lebanese civilians in southern Lebanon,” Hagari said. “We urge civilians in these areas to move out of harm’s way for their own safety.”
The IDF has emphasized that its actions are aimed at defending Israeli citizens and preventing further escalation in the region. “We are operating in self-defense against Hezbollah and any other enemy that joins in their attacks against us,” Hagari said. “We are ready to do everything necessary to protect the people of Israel.”
The situation is part of a broader conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, which began on October 7 with a deadly attack that killed nearly 1,200 Israelis and wounded over 4,800. The vast majority of the victims are civilians and include dozens of American citizens. Hezbollah has since fired guided rockets and artillery shells at Israel, leading to intensified clashes and a significant escalation of tensions in the region.
As a Shia Islamist political party and terrorist group, Hezbollah wields significant influence in Lebanon and has been involved in various conflicts, including the Syrian Civil War. The group’s military strength has grown considerably, with support from Iran and Syria, and it has been designated as a terrorist organization by over a dozen countries and international entities.
Hezbollah’s actions have raised significant security concerns for Israel and have led to contentious relations with the United States. The group’s history of terrorist activities, including the 1983 bombing of the Beirut Marine barracks, has resulted in the deaths of hundreds of Americans and has been condemned by world leaders.
