Hezbollah Claim It Attacked 9 Israeli Military Sites with Rockets, Drones

Hezbollah launched a major coordinated attack on Israeli military sites, including rocket and drone strikes, in retaliation for the killing of a senior commander by Israel. This escalation marks the largest drone offensive by Hezbollah in the ongoing conflict.

Hezbollah, the Lebanon-based militant group, significantly escalated hostilities along Lebanon's southern border by launching a series of coordinated attacks on Israeli military sites. This marked the second consecutive day of intensified conflict, prompted by the killing of a senior Hezbollah commander in an Israeli airstrike.

Details of the Attack

On Thursday, Hezbollah announced it had targeted nine Israeli military sites with rockets and weaponized drones. This large-scale attack involved volleys of Katyusha and Falaq rockets fired at six locations and the launch of drones at three significant targets: Israel's northern command headquarters, an intelligence headquarters, and a military barracks.

According to Al-Manar television, Hezbollah fired more than 100 rockets simultaneously, marking a significant escalation in their military activities. A security source informed Reuters that the drone attack included at least 30 drones, the largest such offensive by Hezbollah in the ongoing conflict, which has been active for eight months.

Background and Retaliation

The escalation followed an Israeli strike on Tuesday that killed a senior Hezbollah field commander. In response, Hezbollah carried out at least eight attacks on Wednesday. The group's statement emphasized that Thursday's operations were a direct retaliation for the commander's death.

Since the outbreak of the Gaza war in October, Hezbollah and Israel have exchanged fire intermittently. However, the killing of the Hezbollah commander triggered a notable increase in hostilities over the past two days.

Broader Context

Hezbollah, backed by Iran, has long been involved in regional conflicts and has a history of hostilities with Israel. The group's increased use of drones and coordinated rocket attacks signifies a shift in its military strategy, aiming to leverage advanced technology for more impactful strikes. 

Israel's northern command, the intelligence headquarters, and military barracks targeted in the drone attacks are critical to the country's defense infrastructure. Hezbollah's capability to conduct such large-scale drone offensives indicates a significant enhancement in its operational capacity.

Implications

The latest attacks underscore the volatile and escalating nature of the conflict between Hezbollah and Israel. This increase in hostilities poses a substantial risk to regional stability and could lead to further military engagements.

Conclusion

The recent escalation by Hezbollah highlights the ongoing and intensifying conflict with Israel. With advanced weaponry and coordinated attacks, the group continues to challenge Israeli military operations, raising concerns over broader regional implications.