In a deadly escalation of tensions, an Israeli strike took out one of Hezbollah’s top commanders in south Lebanon, leading to retaliatory rocket attacks by the Iran-backed group. The conflict between these powerful adversaries has the potential to spiral into a wider and devastating war, prompting US diplomatic efforts to calm the situation.
![An Israeli fighter jet flies over the border area between northern Israel and southern Lebanon. Photo: AFP a9c12fdd 9773 40eb a19c 3728d4de8fac e8799f4f](https://cdn.i-scmp.com/sites/default/files/d8/images/canvas/2024/07/04/a9c12fdd-9773-40eb-a19c-3728d4de8fac_e8799f4f.jpg)
Israel’s Defence Minister vowed to strike Hezbollah, emphasizing the preference for a negotiated resolution. The conflict escalated when Hezbollah began firing at Israeli targets, in support of Hamas. Hezbollah retaliated for the assassination of their commander, launching rockets at Israeli bases along the border.
![Hezbollah commander Mohammad Nasser. Photo: Hezbollah Media Relations Office via AP aa243708 812b 4a00 aab0 dcb39031a82d 41ed08a3](https://cdn.i-scmp.com/sites/default/files/d8/images/canvas/2024/07/04/aa243708-812b-4a00-aab0-dcb39031a82d_41ed08a3.jpg)
The conflict has resulted in significant casualties and displacement on both sides of the border, highlighting the urgency for a peaceful resolution to prevent further loss of life.