A rocket attack from Lebanon struck the central Israeli town of Tira early Saturday, injuring 19 people, including four moderately wounded, according to Israeli police. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reported intercepting some of the three projectiles launched from Lebanon.
The Magen David Adom emergency service treated several individuals, among them a 20-year-old man with shrapnel injuries. Videos shared by the Israeli Foreign Ministry depicted flames and smoke emanating from a building, with emergency responders on the scene. The ministry attributed the attack to Hezbollah, stating, “We cannot and will not rest until Hezbollah is dismantled.”
Tira, a predominantly Arab town located approximately 25 kilometers northeast of Tel Aviv, experienced significant damage, with the roof and top floor of a three-story building destroyed. The attack is part of a broader escalation, as Israel has intensified airstrikes against Hezbollah targets in Lebanon following the group’s support for Hamas after the October 7, 2023, attacks.
The conflict has resulted in substantial casualties. Israeli figures report at least 63 deaths on the Israeli side since hostilities with Hezbollah began. On Thursday, rocket fire from Lebanon killed seven people in Metula, northern Israel, including four Thai nationals. In Gaza, Israeli strikes have led to 43,259 Palestinian deaths, predominantly civilians, according to the Hamas-run health ministry.
The IDF has conducted multiple operations targeting Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon, including airstrikes on the southern suburbs of Beirut. The Lebanese health ministry reported 52 fatalities from Israeli strikes on Friday.
The international community has expressed concern over the escalating violence. Efforts for a ceasefire have faced challenges, with both sides continuing military operations. The situation remains volatile, with fears of a broader regional conflict.
