Israeli attacks on Hezbollah escalate tensions, 37 dead
US urges restraint as Israeli attacks on Hezbollah intensify
Israeli attacks on Hezbollah’s radios and pagers have significantly escalated tensions, with the leader of the Iran-backed Lebanese group declaring that these actions have crossed all boundaries. On Thursday, the United States urged restraint and immediate de-escalation.
Lebanon and Hezbollah accused Israel of targeting their communications equipment, resulting in 37 fatalities and around 3,000 injuries, causing chaos in Lebanese hospitals. The attacks have severely impacted Hezbollah. Israel has not officially commented, but security sources suggest Mossad, known for its complex foreign operations, is likely responsible.
Hezbollah’s leader, Hassan Nasrallah, addressed the situation on television from an undisclosed location. He described the attacks as an unprecedented security and military blow in the history of both the resistance and Lebanon. Nasrallah, in his usual black turban against a plain red backdrop, stated that such acts could be seen as war crimes or a declaration of war. He condemned the actions, claiming they violated all legal and moral standards.
Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah said Thursday in a televised speech that the deadly device explosions across Lebanon on Tuesday and Wednesday, killing at least 37, are "an act of war and a declaration of war by Israel." #XinhuaNewspic.twitter.com/2PW6WoGFIm
— Zhang Meifang (@CGMeifangZhang) September 20, 2024
As his speech aired, the sound of Israeli warplanes thundered over Beirut, a now familiar noise that has grown more ominous with the increasing threat of full-scale conflict. Hezbollah reported new airstrikes in the border area in the afternoon.
Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant announced late on Thursday that Israel intends to continue its military operations against Hezbollah.
What Other Media Are Saying
- Daily Times reports on Hezbollah leader Nasrallah denouncing Israeli attacks as sonic booms rattle Beirut, calling them unprecedented and potentially war crimes, amidst escalating tensions between Israel and Hezbollah. (Read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
What did Hezbollah’s leader say about the Israeli attacks?
Their leader called the attacks unprecedented and a potential war crime.
How many casualties resulted from the attacks on Hezbollah’s communications equipment?
The attacks killed 37 people and wounded around 3,000.
Who is believed to be responsible for the attacks on Hezbollah’s equipment?
Security sources suggest Israel’s Mossad spy agency is likely responsible.
What has the United States called for in response to the situation?
The United States has called for restraint and urgent de-escalation.
What did Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant say about future actions?
He said Israel will continue military action against Hezbollah.
