A rocket strike at a soccer field in Israel’s Golan Heights killed 11 children and teens, raising fears of a broader regional war amid escalating tensions between Israel and Hezbollah. While Israel blamed Hezbollah for the attack, the militant group denied any involvement. The strike marked the deadliest on Israeli civilians since the recent conflict began and left 20 others wounded.
Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz warned of an imminent all-out war, as Hezbollah’s attacks intensified along the Lebanon-Israel border. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu cut his US trip short to address the security crisis back home. Calls for a harsh response against Hezbollah emerged, but all-out war poses challenges for Israel after months of fighting in Gaza.
Despite efforts from international actors to ease tensions, the violence persists. Stalled ceasefire talks with Hamas in Gaza add complexity to the situation. Since October, casualties have risen on both sides, with civilian deaths sparking international concern.
Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon have claimed hundreds of lives, including civilians, while fatalities on the Israeli side show the impact of the ongoing conflict.