Lebanon’s Hezbollah fired around 200 rockets into Israel on Thursday, their largest barrage yet, as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu signalled a possible resumption of hostage release talks with Hamas.
Israel’s military confirmed the Iran-backed group launched “numerous projectiles and aerial targets” from Lebanon towards the occupied Golan Heights and over 15 drones. Many were intercepted, with no reported casualties.
Hezbollah claimed the attack retaliated to an Israeli airstrike that killed a senior commander, Mohammed Nasser, on Wednesday. This follows earlier attacks in response to his “assassination.”
The group said they launched Katyusha and Falaq missiles at Israeli bases near the border and in Golan. Security sources in Lebanon confirmed Nasser’s death, describing him as a figure of “great importance” who participated in past conflicts.
Ceasefire efforts
Initial U.S. diplomatic efforts aimed to calm the Lebanon-Israel border separately from the Gaza conflict. Hezbollah linked their attacks to supporting Hamas, suggesting a ceasefire in Gaza could halt their assaults.
Israeli authorities, however, haven’t ruled out military action in Lebanon if diplomacy fails.
Netanyahu’s office confirmed plans to convene his security cabinet and consult with ceasefire negotiators. He also informed U.S. President Biden of his decision to send a delegation to resume hostage release talks.
Netanyahu reiterated Israel’s stance of ending the Gaza war only after achieving its objectives. Hamas responded on Wednesday to a U.S.-proposed ceasefire framework, including a potential release of 120 hostages. A Palestinian mediator indicated Hamas showed flexibility, allowing for a potential agreement if Israel approves.
Hamas demands include ending the blockade and a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza. Israel seeks temporary pauses in fighting until Hamas is “eradicated.”
The proposed strategy involves phased releases of Israeli captives and troop withdrawals alongside Palestinian detainee releases, followed by reconstruction and repatriation of remains.
Tens of thousands of Palestinians remain displaced after evacuation orders, including the border city of Rafah. The UN deems this the largest displacement since 2013.
The war, which began in October 2023 with a Hamas attack on southern Israel, has seen over 1,200 Israeli and 38,000 Palestinian casualties, according to the Gaza health ministry.
