Israel-Hezbollah Conflict, Golan Heights attack

Israel Prepares Response to Hezbollah After Deadly Rocket Attack

Israel’s emergency security cabinet has granted Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant the authority to determine “the nature” and “timing” of a response to Hezbollah, as stated by the prime minister’s office on Sunday.

This decision follows Israel’s accusation against the Lebanese militant group for a rocket attack in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights, which resulted in the deaths of 12 children and teenagers on Saturday. Hezbollah has denied any involvement in the attack.

Lebanon’s caretaker Foreign Minister Abdallah Bou Habib indicated that third-party nations, reportedly including the US and France, have assured him that Israel’s retaliation will be restrained.

The attack marks the deadliest incident in Israel or its controlled territories since the October 7 assault by Hamas. Israel has vowed that Hezbollah will “pay the price.”

This strike has escalated fears of a potential full-scale war in the region. Iran, a key supporter of Hezbollah, has warned against any “new adventures” targeting Lebanon. Bou Habib stated that while Lebanon will not engage in war, it will support Hezbollah.

Bou Habib also cautioned that other regional actors, including those in Syria, Iraq, and Yemen, might become involved.