The strike, reportedly carried out by Israeli aircraft in the village of Mais al-Jabal, resulted in the deaths of several members of the same family. Lebanon’s state-run National News Agency initially reported three casualties, but later updated the toll to four, identifying the victims as a couple and their children aged 12 and 21.
Hezbollah swiftly responded to what it termed a “horrific crime” committed by the Israeli enemy. In a statement, the group announced the firing of “dozens of Katyusha and Falaq rockets” at Kiryat Shmona, a town in northern Israel. This exchange marks yet another violent episode in the ongoing conflict between Hezbollah and Israel, which has seen a recent escalation in hostilities.
The conflict between the two adversaries has been fueled by a series of incidents, including the war in Gaza sparked by an attack on southern Israel by the Palestinian militant group Hamas. In recent weeks, the violence has intensified, with Israel conducting airstrikes deeper into Lebanese territory, while Hezbollah has increased its missile and drone attacks on military positions in northern Israel.
Hezbollah has framed its actions as a response to Israeli aggression and in solidarity with Palestinians, particularly in Gaza. The group has repeatedly stated that only a ceasefire in Gaza would halt its attacks on Israel.
The toll of the conflict on civilians has been significant, with hundreds killed and tens of thousands displaced on both sides of the border. According to an AFP tally, at least 390 people have been killed in nearly seven months of cross-border violence, with the majority being militants but also including more than 70 civilians. Israel has reported the deaths of 11 soldiers and nine civilians.
