Israeli jets carried out airstrikes in southern Lebanon overnight as efforts were underway to prevent a regional conflict after a rocket attack in the occupied Golan Heights that resulted in the tragic deaths of 12 young people. The Israeli Defence Minister, Yoav Gallant, visited the site of the attack in Majdal Shams, a village mainly inhabited by Druze, and condemned the incident as a “terrible tragedy.”
The attack claimed the lives of 12 children aged between 10 and 16 who were playing football, with several others sustaining injuries. Gallant attributed the attack to Hezbollah and vowed that they would face consequences. Thousands of mourners gathered in the village for the victims’ funerals as tensions escalated.
While Israel accused Hezbollah of deliberately targeting civilians, the militant group denied responsibility, claiming that an Israeli Iron Dome defence system projectile had caused the casualties. In response to the attack, Israel conducted airstrikes in southern Lebanon and near the Bekaa valley.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was set to convene a security cabinet meeting to address the situation amid concerns of further escalation. The United States Secretary of State stressed the importance of caution, acknowledging Israel’s right to defend its citizens while urging to avoid further conflict.
The United Nations called for maximum restraint from both sides to prevent a wider conflagration in the region. The Golan Heights, seized by Israel from Syria in 1967 and annexed in 1981, remains a contentious area.
The IDF chief of staff confirmed that Israel was enhancing readiness for potential future confrontations in the north, in addition to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Amid funeral processions, Iranian officials warned Israel against further actions in Lebanon, underscoring the volatile situation.
Diplomatic efforts were underway to negotiate a ceasefire and secure the release of hostages held by Hamas in Gaza. The White House reiterated its support for ending the attacks along the Blue Line separating Israeli and Lebanese territory.
The situation remains tense as regional powers and international actors strive to ease tensions and prevent a full-blown conflict. The repercussions of the recent events highlight the fragility of the region and the urgent need for diplomatic solutions to avert a humanitarian catastrophe.
