JERUSALEM: Israel launched attacks targeting what it claimed were Hezbollah weapons facilities in southern Beirut on Saturday after the Lebanese group fired rockets into northern Israel.
A spokesperson also reported that a drone had been sent toward Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s holiday residence, although he was not present at the time and it was unclear if the drone caused any damage.
Netanyahu characterized the incident as an assassination attempt by “Iran’s proxy Hezbollah,” labeling it a “grave mistake” amid Israel’s preparations to respond to a previous Iranian missile strike.
The strikes occurred as medics and Hamas-affiliated media in Gaza reported that Israeli bombardments had resulted in over 100 fatalities in the region, with increased restrictions affecting three hospitals.
The ongoing conflict has dampened hopes for a ceasefire, especially following the recent death of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, which was expected to potentially lead to truce negotiations in both Gaza and Lebanon.
Officials and diplomats suggest that, with U.S. elections on the horizon, Israel aims to intensify military operations to secure its borders and prevent adversaries from regrouping.
On Saturday, Israeli aircraft dropped leaflets over southern Gaza featuring Sinwar’s image and the message: “Hamas will no longer rule Gaza.”
Later, Israeli strikes on a multi-story building in Beit Lahiya, northern Gaza, reportedly killed at least 73 individuals and injured many others, according to medical sources and Hamas media.
(Inputs from Reuters and VOA)
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