Galilee Region, Israel — A significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between Hezbollah and Israel occurred on Friday morning when the Lebanese militant group launched 70 rockets into the Galilee region of northern Israel.

This barrage included a particularly intense salvo of 15 rockets, according to reports from Israeli media.

The rocket attacks are reported to be in retaliation for an Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) operation conducted the previous day targeting villages in southern Lebanon.

Hezbollah-affiliated news outlet Al-Mayadeen claimed responsibility for the rocket launches, including those aimed at Abirim and Neve Ziv, marking the first time these locations have been targeted by the group. The rockets were fired using Katyusha launchers, as per the same source.

The rocket fire resulted in direct hits on several locations, including Metula and other areas in northern Israel. However, the IDF has disputed these claims, stating that the siren activation in Metula was due to a false alarm rather than actual rocket impact.

In addition to the rocket attacks, the IDF Aerial Defense Array intercepted a suspicious aerial target that crossed from Lebanon into Israeli airspace early Friday morning.

The interception triggered air raid sirens, which were intended to warn residents of potential danger from falling shrapnel. Fortunately, no injuries were reported from the incident.

The heightened tensions and reciprocal strikes between Hezbollah and Israel reflect the ongoing volatility in the region. The IDF’s strike on Lebanese villages, which precipitated Hezbollah’s counterattacks, underscores the fragile nature of the current ceasefire and the high risk of further escalation.

Hezbollah’s increased use of Katyusha rockets in their latest offensive indicates a shift in their tactical approach, potentially aiming to maximize the impact on Israeli territory and civilian areas. This escalation comes amidst a broader backdrop of military engagements and political instability in the region.

The IDF has not only focused on intercepting incoming rockets but has also been engaged in intelligence and reconnaissance operations to monitor and counteract further threats.

The use of aerial defense systems to intercept rockets highlights the technological and strategic measures Israel has employed to safeguard its population and minimize damage during periods of heightened conflict.

In response to the attacks, Israeli authorities have emphasized their commitment to protecting civilians while continuing to address security threats.

The conflict’s recent developments underscore the persistent volatility and the challenges facing both Israeli and Lebanese communities as they navigate the ongoing hostilities.

As the situation continues to evolve, both sides remain on high alert, with international observers closely monitoring the conflict’s progression and its potential implications for regional stability.