Israel launched strikes on southern Beirut and Gaza in response to a Hezbollah drone attack targeting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s home in Caesarea, northern Israel. The drone strike, which Israeli officials claim was orchestrated by Iran, was intended to assassinate Netanyahu, though he and his wife were not present at the time.
Israeli forces hit Hezbollah weapon facilities in Beirut, and in Gaza, at least 35 people were reported dead due to ongoing bombardments, with three hospitals under siege. Netanyahu condemned the assassination attempt as a “grave mistake” and warned that Iran and its proxies would face severe consequences for targeting him and Israel.
The attacks have escalated tensions in the region, following the killing of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar. Israeli jets also dropped leaflets in Gaza declaring that “Hamas will no longer rule Gaza,” signaling Israel’s intent to intensify its military efforts against both Hamas and Hezbollah.