The article discusses the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Lebanese militia Hezbollah, highlighting recent military actions, including Israeli attacks on southern Lebanon and the confirmation of the death of a potential successor to Hezbollah’s leader, Nasrallah. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu warned of Hezbollah’s planned invasion, while air raid alerts were issued in Tel Aviv due to rocket fire from Lebanon. The UN expressed concerns about Lebanon’s economic stability amidst the violence, and Germany’s foreign minister visited the region to assess the situation.
Hezbollah has confirmed the death of a potential successor to leader Nasrallah, and the Israeli military has conducted strikes in the Lebanese city of Tyros. Stay updated with the latest developments in our live report.
Hezbollah Claims Ongoing Israeli Invasion
Hezbollah reports that Israeli ground forces continue to invade southern Lebanon, with attempts to advance into Lebanese territory near Aitarun thwarted by their fighters using machine guns and rockets. The militia has taken responsibility for launching rockets at various congregations of Israeli soldiers along the border.
Israeli PM Accuses Hezbollah of Planning an “Invasion”
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has claimed that Hezbollah is planning a large-scale assault akin to the Hamas attack on October 7. He stated that a tunnel system about 100 meters into Lebanese territory was discovered, intended for use by Hezbollah in a planned invasion with vehicles, motorcycles, and rockets. Netanyahu described the size of this operation as being potentially larger than the attack on October 7.
Air Raid Alerts in Tel Aviv
In the evening, Tel Aviv experienced its second air raid alert of the day, following the identification of four projectiles launched from Lebanon. While some were intercepted before making impact, others struck uninhabited areas. No information regarding injuries or damage was available initially. Earlier that day, sirens had woken many residents from sleep.
Conflict with Al-Jazeera
Tensions are escalating between the Israeli military and the Arab news network Al-Jazeera over its reporting on the war in Gaza. The army alleged it had uncovered documents indicating that six journalists from the network are linked to militant groups like Hamas and Islamic Jihad. Al-Jazeera rejected these claims as fabricated accusations aimed at suppressing coverage from its journalists in Gaza.
UN Warns of Economic destabilization in Lebanon
The United Nations has indicated that the ongoing conflict could lead to further decline in Lebanon’s already fragile economy, with predictions of a 9.2 percent drop in GDP this year due to continued fighting. The destruction of businesses, factories, and infrastructure could exacerbate an economic crisis that has persisted for years.
Germany’s Role in the Region
As German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock visits the Middle East, questions arise regarding Germany’s influence in the region. ARD correspondent Simon Riesche provides insights into Baerbock’s discussions during her trip.
Israel Detains Over 150 Suspected Extremists
The Israeli military reports the detention of more than 150 suspected Palestinian extremists in the northern Gaza Strip, with actions concentrated in the Jabalia refugee camp. Some suspects turned themselves in voluntarily, and the military facilitated evacuation for around 20,000 residents over the past day.
Hamas Involvement in Talks in Moscow
A Hamas delegation has arrived in Moscow for talks aimed at de-escalating conflict in Gaza. Led by Mussa Abu Marsuk, the talks are focused on negotiating an end to the ongoing violence.
Hezbollah Confirms Death of Key Leader
Hezbollah has confirmed the killing of Hashim Safi al-Din, who was seen as a possible successor to Hassan Nasrallah. Al-Din was reportedly killed in an Israeli airstrike targeting Hezbollah’s intelligence operations near Beirut. His death has raised concerns regarding the leadership structure of the organization amidst ongoing conflicts.
Germany Offers Financial Aid to Lebanon
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has pledged additional financial assistance to Lebanon amidst the ongoing crisis, indicating that €60 million will be provided to support the Lebanese government’s efforts.
Iran Dismisses Israeli Threats
Iran’s nuclear chief, Mohammed Eslami, has stated that the country is not concerned about potential Israeli attacks on its nuclear facilities, emphasizing their defense capabilities.
Blinken Discusses Conflict Resolution in Saudi Arabia
During his Middle East tour, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has met with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to discuss a resolution to the Gaza conflict and the release of hostages captured by Hamas.
US Defense Secretary Addresses Israeli Claims
US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has stated that there is currently no evidence supporting Israeli assertions that a Hezbollah bunker is located beneath a hospital in Beirut. The investigation into these claims continues.
Israeli Military Operations in Lebanon
The Israeli military has reported significant losses