Israel has continued airstrikes on Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon, while the Hezbollah group, backed by Iran, launched rockets into northern Israel.
This comes just one day after Israeli airstrikes killed almost 500 people in Lebanon, forcing thousands to flee.
Hezbollah claimed responsibility for attacking several Israeli military sites, including an explosives factory and an airfield, using rockets.
Israel said over 50 rockets were fired into its northern regions, but most were intercepted.
The conflict has sparked concerns about the involvement of the United States and Iran, potentially leading to a larger regional war.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian stated that Hezbollah cannot fight Israel alone and needs support. “Hebzollah cannot stand alone against a country that is being defended and supported and supplied by western countries, by European countries and the United States,” Pezeshkian said.
Meanwhile, officials from the European Union have expressed fear of a growing war between Israel and Hezbollah, with high civilian casualties and intense strikes. The U.S. is discussing ways with its allies to prevent the situation from worsening, though diplomatic efforts have not yet stopped the violence.
Lebanon has seen a high number of casualties, with Monday marking the deadliest day since the country’s 15-year civil war.
Israel stated that the strikes on Hezbollah aim to stop the group’s attacks or force a diplomatic solution.
In the northern part of Israel, more than 60,000 people were evacuated following attacks by Hamas earlier this month, and they remain unable to return due to ongoing conflicts.
Israel’s Defense Minister, Yoav Gallant, said the airstrikes would continue until residents could safely return.
He added that Hezbollah was facing its toughest week since it was formed, with many of its fighters injured or killed by Israel’s attacks.
In Lebanon, displaced families are taking shelter in schools and other temporary locations, with many sleeping in their cars or outdoors.
Volunteers have set up kitchens to provide food for those affected. Meanwhile, people in Lebanon are rushing to stock up on supplies, preparing for further strikes.
The U.S. has also deployed more troops to the Middle East as tensions rise, and other world leaders, including those from France and China, are calling for calm and urging all sides to avoid escalating the conflict further.
