The Israeli military launched fresh strikes against Hezbollah positions in Lebanon, citing preparations for an attack on Israel. Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari issued warnings to south Lebanon residents to stay away from Hezbollah posts. Heavy cross-border exchanges escalated with Israeli airstrikes hitting towns in southern Lebanon and the Bekaa Valley. Columns of smoke were seen rising over the region.
Hezbollah retaliated by firing rockets into northern Israel, after one of their commanders was killed in Beirut. Israel’s Defence Minister vowed to continue operations until it was safe for residents to return, prolonging the conflict. Amid tensions, Irish Foreign Affairs Minister Micheál Martin expressed concerns over further escalation and stressed the need to avoid a full-blown war in Lebanon.
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Meanwhile, Irish troops in Lebanon are deemed safe, with good morale as they fulfill their UN mandate under constant review and protection measures.