Israel Strikes Hezbollah Cells in Lebanon, Escalating Violence and Fuelling Fears of Conflict

 In the latest escalation of violence between Israel and Hezbollah, Israeli aircraft targeted two Hezbollah cells in Lebanon early on Monday. The military strikes were aimed at preventing the cells from launching anti-tank missiles and rockets towards Israel, according to the Israeli military. Hezbollah confirmed that one of its fighters was killed during the attack. The first cell was located near the Israeli town of Mattat, around 13 km southwest of Aitaroun, while the second cell was in the disputed Shebaa Farms area.

The military claimed to have successfully struck both cells before they could carry out their planned attack. Israel later announced additional strikes on Hezbollah targets, including a compound and an observation post. There have been no immediate reports of injuries or damage. The recent series of clashes between Israel and Hezbollah follows an attack by Palestinian group Hamas on Israel on October 7.

Israel responded with intense air strikes on Gaza, sparking increased cross-border fire between Israel and Hezbollah. As a result, Israel has taken steps to evacuate 42 communities along its northern front with Lebanon. Hezbollah has reported that at least 27 of its fighters have been killed since October 7, while Lebanese security sources say that 11 fighters from Palestinian groups in Lebanon, allied with Hezbollah, have also been killed in the border area. Additionally, four civilians have lost their lives in the violence. On the Israeli side of the border, five soldiers and one civilian have been killed, according to Israeli military reports. The situation remains tense as both sides continue to exchange fire, with fears of further escalation in the conflict.