Hezbollah launched a fresh wave of rockets into Israel on Tuesday, while Israel increased its troop presence in southern Lebanon and advanced further into Northern Gaza as part of its dual-front offensive. The Israeli military reported that Hezbollah fired approximately 180 rockets, targeting areas south of the Haifa port city in northern Israel. Authorities advised residents to stay indoors and closed additional schools along the border.
Hezbollah’s acting leader, Sheikh Naim Kassem, stated that the group’s military capabilities remain intact despite ongoing Israeli strikes. Kassem claimed that Israeli forces have not made significant advances into southern Lebanon since their ground incursion began last week. In a video message, he also mentioned that Hezbollah will appoint a new leader to replace Hassan Nasrallah, although the current war complicates the process.
Following Kassem’s speech, Hezbollah released a statement reaffirming its unwavering support for Palestinians in Gaza. The statement clarified that Kassem’s remarks should not be interpreted as a willingness to agree to a cease-fire in Lebanon without a simultaneous cease-fire in Gaza, emphasizing that both fronts are interconnected.
Happening #NOW
Hezbollah announces that it targeted Haifa and Krayot with rockets, the targets being the cities themselves, as opposed to specific military targets or bases.
Israeli media says between 100 and 200 rockets launched from Lebanon in less than an hour. pic.twitter.com/RQeZAZfHRc
— Sandeep Singh🎗️ (@Sandeepcharan73) October 8, 2024
In a separate incident, an Israeli airstrike in Damascus killed seven civilians, including women and children. The strike targeted a building reportedly used by Iran’s Revolutionary Guards and Hezbollah. The Syrian Defence Ministry indicated that the building also housed several embassies and a security headquarters. The Syrian foreign ministry condemned the attack, urging immediate action to prevent Israel from escalating the regional conflict.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned Lebanon of potential destruction similar to that seen in Gaza. In a video address to the Lebanese people, he urged them to “free your country from Hezbollah to end this war.” He warned that Lebanon faces a long war that could lead to widespread destruction and suffering akin to what is occurring in Gaza.
What Other Media Are Saying
- Al Jazeera reports on escalating Israeli-Lebanese tensions as Hezbollah rockets hit Haifa, wounding 10, while Israeli strikes pound southern Beirut, causing multiple blasts and casualties.(read more)
- ABC News reports Hezbollah’s acting leader, Sheikh Naim Kassem, vows to displace more Israelis as the group intensifies rocket attacks despite Israeli military actions and commander replacements.(read more)
- CNN reports a Hezbollah rocket attack on Haifa, Israel, injuring at least five people, with Hezbollah targeting Israel’s Carmel military base, highlighting ongoing regional tensions.(read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
What did Hezbollah do recently?
Hezbollah fired a barrage of rockets into Israel.
How many rockets did Hezbollah fire into Israel?
Hezbollah fired about 180 rockets.
What did Sheikh Naim Kassem say about Hezbollah’s military capabilities?
Kassem said Hezbollah’s military capabilities are intact despite Israeli strikes.
What was the result of the Israeli airstrike in Damascus?
Seven civilians, including women and children, were killed.
What warning did Netanyahu give to Lebanon?
Netanyahu warned Lebanon of destruction like Gaza if Hezbollah is not stopped.