<p>The Israeli Army said that Lebanon’s Hezbollah launched a new round of projectiles into northern Israel on Wednesday (June 19), after Israel's warning of a "total war" with the militant group supported by Iran.</p>

<p>Meanwhile,&nbsp;Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu urged his political allies to "get a grip" and give up "petty politics" in the wake of high-profile arguments between members of his coalition.</p>

<p>In an online video address, Netanyahu stated, "We are at war on several fronts, and we face great challenges and difficult decisions. Therefore, I strongly demand that all coalition partners get a grip and rise to the occasion."</p>

<p>"This is not the time for petty politics, this is not the time for legislation that endangers the coalition that is fighting for victory over our enemies," he said.</p>

<p>“We must all focus solely on the tasks before us: defeating Hamas, returning all our hostages and returning our residents safely to their homes, both in the north and in the south. And so I demand from everyone — put aside any other consideration. Put aside any partisan interest. Stand as one, together, behind our troops,” Netanyahu added.</p>

<p>Netanyahu's appeal follows a public spat between his Likud party and Itamar Ben Gvir, the leader of Otzma Yehudit, in which the former accused the latter of disclosing "state secrets."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since the Palestinian militant group's strike on southern Israel on October 7, which sparked the Gaza war, Israel and Hezbollah, an ally of Hamas, have been exchanging gunfire almost every day.</p>

<p>The military claimed in a statement that "approximately 15 projectiles were identified from Lebanon toward the area of Kiryat Shmona, several of which were intercepted by IDF (army) aerial defence array."</p>

<p>It stated that "IDF artillery struck the sources of fire" and that there were no injuries as a result of the incoming fire.</p>

<p>According to the military, its warplanes also destroyed infrastructure in Khiam, Lebanon, and a Hezbollah military military near Tyre.</p>

<p>In response to the "Israeli enemy attacks" on Yarun and Khiam, Hezbollah stated on Wednesday that it had launched "dozens of Katyusha rockets and artillery rounds" at a barracks in Kiryat Shmona, northern Israel.</p>

<p>The conflict on Wednesday occurred the day after the Israeli military declared that operational preparations for an invasion of Lebanon had been authorised.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-68-indian-nationals-die-in-hajj-pilgrimage-amid-scorching-temperatures-diplomat-733222">At least 68 Indian nationals die in Hajj pilgrimage amid scorching temperatures: Diplomat</a></strong></p>

<p>The military released a statement saying, "As part of the situational assessment, operational plans for an offensive in Lebanon were approved and validated."</p>

<p>The decision coincided with Hezbollah's threat of destruction in the case of a "total war" between Israel and Palestine, issued on Tuesday by Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz.</p>

<p>According to a statement released by his office, "We are very close to the moment when we will decide to change the rules of the game against Hezbollah and Lebanon."</p>

<p>“In a total war, Hezbollah will be destroyed and Lebanon will be hit hard,” the statement added.</p>

<p>According to an AFP count, the Israel-Lebanon clashes have claimed the lives of at least 473 individuals in Lebanon, the majority of them were militants but also included 92 civilians.</p>

<p>According to Israeli officials, the country's north has seen the deaths of at least 15 soldiers and 11 civilians.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Israeli Army said that Lebanon’s Hezbollah launched a new round of projectiles into northern Israel on Wednesday (June 19), after Israel's warning of a "total war" with the militant group supported by Iran.

The Israeli Army said that Lebanon’s Hezbollah launched a new round of projectiles into northern Israel on Wednesday (June 19), after Israel's warning of a "total war" with the militant group supported by Iran. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu urged his political allies to "get a grip" and give up "petty politics" in the wake of high-profile arguments between members of his coalition. In an online video address, Netanyahu stated, "We are at war on several fronts, and we face great challenges and difficult decisions. Therefore, I strongly demand that all coalition partners get a grip and rise to the occasion." "This is not the time for petty politics, this is not the time for legislation that endangers the coalition that is fighting for victory over our enemies," he said. “We must all focus solely on the tasks before us: defeating Hamas, returning all our hostages and returning our residents safely to their homes, both in the north and in the south. And so I demand from everyone — put aside any other consideration. Put aside any partisan interest. Stand as one, together, behind our troops,” Netanyahu added. Netanyahu's appeal follows a public spat between his Likud party and Itamar Ben Gvir, the leader of Otzma Yehudit, in which the former accused the latter of disclosing "state secrets." Since the Palestinian militant group's strike on southern Israel on October 7, which sparked the Gaza war, Israel and Hezbollah, an ally of Hamas, have been exchanging gunfire almost every day. The military claimed in a statement that "approximately 15 projectiles were identified from Lebanon toward the area of Kiryat Shmona, several of which were intercepted by IDF (army) aerial defence array." It stated that "IDF artillery struck the sources of fire" and that there were no injuries as a result of the incoming fire. According to the military, its warplanes also destroyed infrastructure in Khiam, Lebanon, and a Hezbollah military military near Tyre. In response to the "Israeli enemy attacks" on Yarun and Khiam, Hezbollah stated on Wednesday that it had launched "dozens of Katyusha rockets and artillery rounds" at a barracks in Kiryat Shmona, northern Israel. The conflict on Wednesday occurred the day after the Israeli military declared that operational preparations for an invasion of Lebanon had been authorised. Also read: At least 68 Indian nationals die in Hajj pilgrimage amid scorching temperatures: Diplomat The military released a statement saying, "As part of the situational assessment, operational plans for an offensive in Lebanon were approved and validated." The decision coincided with Hezbollah's threat of destruction in the case of a "total war" between Israel and Palestine, issued on Tuesday by Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz. According to a statement released by his office, "We are very close to the moment when we will decide to change the rules of the game against Hezbollah and Lebanon." “In a total war, Hezbollah will be destroyed and Lebanon will be hit hard,” the statement added. According to an AFP count, the Israel-Lebanon clashes have claimed the lives of at least 473 individuals in Lebanon, the majority of them were militants but also included 92 civilians. According to Israeli officials, the country's north has seen the deaths of at least 15 soldiers and 11 civilians. (With inputs from agencies)

Hezbollah launches new attack on northern Israel; Netanyahu urges allies to give up 'petty politics'

<p>Hamas ally Hezbollah said on Monday it had fired "dozens" of Katyusha rockets at an army headquarters in northern Israel in response to raids targeting villages in southern Lebanon.</p>

<p>Since Hamas's unprecedented October 7 attack on Israel triggered war in Gaza, there have been near-daily cross-border exchanges of fire between the Israeli army and Iran-backed Hezbollah.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With Israel-Iran tensions at an all-time high, the Lebanese Shiite militant group has intensified its attacks on Israel military targets across the border.</p>

<p>A Hezbollah statement said it had bombarded "the headquarters of the 3rd Infantry Brigade of the 91st Division at Ein Zeitim Base with dozens of Katyusha rockets".</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://wionews.com/world/idf-jets-hit-hezbollah-targets-in-southern-lebanon-overnight-713558" hreflang="en">IDF jets hit Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon overnight, kill operatives</a></strong></p>

<p>This was in response to Israeli attacks on "southern villages and civilian homes", most recently in Srifa, Odaisseh and Rab Tlatin.</p>

<p>Lebanon's official National News Agency (NNA) reported Israeli strikes on the three villages on Monday.</p>

<p>The Israeli military said "approximately 35 launches were identified crossing from Lebanon into the area of Ein Zeitim in northern Israel" and that no injuries were reported.</p>

<p>It said "troops struck the sources of the launches".</p>

<p>Since October 7 at least 376 people have been killed in Lebanon, mostly Hezbollah fighters but also 70 civilians, according to an AFP tally.</p>

<p>Israel says 10 soldiers and eight civilians have been killed on its side of the border.</p>


Hamas ally Hezbollah said on Monday it had fired "dozens" of Katyusha rockets at an army headquarters in northern Israel in response to raids targeting villages in southern Lebanon.

Hamas ally Hezbollah said on Monday it had fired "dozens" of Katyusha rockets at an army headquarters in northern Israel in response to raids targeting villages in southern Lebanon. Since Hamas's unprecedented October 7 attack on Israel triggered war in Gaza, there have been near-daily cross-border exchanges of fire between the Israeli army and Iran-backed Hezbollah. With Israel-Iran tensions at an all-time high, the Lebanese Shiite militant group has intensified its attacks on Israel military targets across the border. A Hezbollah statement said it had bombarded "the headquarters of the 3rd Infantry Brigade of the 91st Division at Ein Zeitim Base with dozens of Katyusha rockets". Also read: IDF jets hit Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon overnight, kill operatives This was in response to Israeli attacks on "southern villages and civilian homes", most recently in Srifa, Odaisseh and Rab Tlatin. Lebanon's official National News Agency (NNA) reported Israeli strikes on the three villages on Monday. The Israeli military said "approximately 35 launches were identified crossing from Lebanon into the area of Ein Zeitim in northern Israel" and that no injuries were reported. It said "troops struck the sources of the launches". Since October 7 at least 376 people have been killed in Lebanon, mostly Hezbollah fighters but also 70 civilians, according to an AFP tally. Israel says 10 soldiers and eight civilians have been killed on its side of the border.

Hezbollah says 'dozens' of rockets fired at Israeli Army HQ in north

<p>The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) on Friday (Mar 29) eliminated a high-ranking&nbsp;leader of the militant group Hezbollah in an airstrike in Lebanon as the Jewish country continues to target the position of the Iranian proxy in the Lebanese territory.</p>

<p>The killed&nbsp;Hezbollah militant was reportedly identified as Ali Abed Akhsan Naim. Reports said that he was the deputy commander of Hezbollah's rocket and missiles unit.</p>

<p>Notably, Hezbollah has rocket and missile capabilities in its arsenal and the group has been launching barrage of rockets on Israel in the aftermath of the Gaza war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the IDF, Naim was responsible for orchestrating and executing attacks with the help of heavy-warhead rockets. These rockets used to target Israeli civilians.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The fatal strike was reportedly carried out via a drone attack at the time when the Hezbollah leader Naim was travelling in his vehicle in Bazouriye, a region located in southern Lebanon near the border with Israel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/baltimore-bridge-constructing-a-new-bridge-could-cost-minimum-400-million-says-experts-705975">Baltimore bridge: Constructing a new bridge could cost minimum $400 million, experts say</a></p>

<p>Meanwhile, Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) also carried out airstrikes in one of the largest cities in Syria&nbsp;- Aleppo. The strike resulted in the killing of 42 individuals, including six Hezbollah operatives.</p>

<p>Reports suggested that the tally of Hezbollah fighters killed in Israeli strikes on Lebanon thus far is at&nbsp;254.</p>

<h2><strong>Israel strikes UN vehicle?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Initial reports indicated that an Israeli drone strike had targeted a vehicle carrying United Nations observers near Rmeish. However, these claims were refuted by the IDF. The forces stated that they did not strike a United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) vehicle in the area.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/moscow-terror-attack-15-year-old-who-saved-over-100-lives-receives-medal-705974">Moscow terror attack: 15-year-old who saved over 100 lives receives medal</a></p>

<p>IDF, on its social media handle also shared the elimination of Ra’ad Thabat, the head of manpower in Hamas’ military wing. Thabat, considered one of Hamas’ top 10 senior commanders, was responsible for research and development efforts and strengthening systems within the group, as per IDF. He was also&nbsp;head of Hamas’ production unit.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-members-of-biden-admin-call-for-israel-aid-cut-white-house-declines-to-comment-705984">US: Members of Biden admin call for Israel aid cut, White House declines to comment</a></strong></p>

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<p>"He was found and eliminated during the ongoing operation at Shifa attempting to escape along with 2 other terrorists into the hospital courtyard—part of a planned attack on IDF soldiers," IDF said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>


The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) on Friday (Mar 29) eliminated a high-ranking leader of the militant group Hezbollah in an airstrike in Lebanon as the Jewish country continues to target the position of the Iranian proxy in the Lebanese territory.

The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) on Friday (Mar 29) eliminated a high-ranking leader of the militant group Hezbollah in an airstrike in Lebanon as the Jewish country continues to target the position of the Iranian proxy in the Lebanese territory. The killed Hezbollah militant was reportedly identified as Ali Abed Akhsan Naim. Reports said that he was the deputy commander of Hezbollah's rocket and missiles unit. Notably, Hezbollah has rocket and missile capabilities in its arsenal and the group has been launching barrage of rockets on Israel in the aftermath of the Gaza war. According to the IDF, Naim was responsible for orchestrating and executing attacks with the help of heavy-warhead rockets. These rockets used to target Israeli civilians. The fatal strike was reportedly carried out via a drone attack at the time when the Hezbollah leader Naim was travelling in his vehicle in Bazouriye, a region located in southern Lebanon near the border with Israel. Also Read | Baltimore bridge: Constructing a new bridge could cost minimum $400 million, experts say Meanwhile, Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) also carried out airstrikes in one of the largest cities in Syria - Aleppo. The strike resulted in the killing of 42 individuals, including six Hezbollah operatives. Reports suggested that the tally of Hezbollah fighters killed in Israeli strikes on Lebanon thus far is at 254. Israel strikes UN vehicle? Initial reports indicated that an Israeli drone strike had targeted a vehicle carrying United Nations observers near Rmeish. However, these claims were refuted by the IDF. The forces stated that they did not strike a United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) vehicle in the area. Also Read | Moscow terror attack: 15-year-old who saved over 100 lives receives medal IDF, on its social media handle also shared the elimination of Ra’ad Thabat, the head of manpower in Hamas’ military wing. Thabat, considered one of Hamas’ top 10 senior commanders, was responsible for research and development efforts and strengthening systems within the group, as per IDF. He was also head of Hamas’ production unit. Watch | US: Members of Biden admin call for Israel aid cut, White House declines to comment × "He was found and eliminated during the ongoing operation at Shifa attempting to escape along with 2 other terrorists into the hospital courtyard—part of a planned attack on IDF soldiers," IDF said. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Who was Ali Abed Akhsan Naim? Top Hezbollah commander in Lebanon eliminated by Israel

<p>Israel on Monday (Mar 11) launched fresh airstrikes on what it said were&nbsp;Hezbollah sites near Lebanon's eastern city of Baalbek marking the second raid in the region since cross-border hostilities began after the Gaza war.</p>

<h2><strong>Fatalities</strong></h2>

<p>As per&nbsp;an agency AFP report citing security sources, the strikes had killed one person and injured others.</p>

<p>Bashir Khader, the governor of Baalbek, also confirmed the strikes and the fatality after Israel launched four strikes, reports Reuters.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-pm-netanyahu-meets-indias-national-security-advisor-ajit-doval-amid-ongoing-war-in-gaza-699142">Israeli PM Netanyahu meets India's NSA Ajit Doval; discusses humanitarian assistance amid ongoing war</a></strong><br />
&nbsp;<br />
Reportedly, one of the strikes hit the southern entrance to the city of Baalbek, at least 2 km (1.24 miles) from ancient Roman ruins, the security sources said.</p>

<p>The three other strikes hit near the city of Taraya, 20 km (12.4 miles) west of Baalbek, they added.</p>

<p>AFP, on the other hand, reported that "Israeli aircraft targeted a former Hezbollah building near Dar Al Amal hospital." The news agency's security source also said that Israel had "conducted another raid on a warehouse west of Baalbek".</p>

<p>Lebanon's state-run National News Agency (NNA) also reported Israeli airstrikes, saying they "targeted a residential building in the town of Ansar … south of Baalbek".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Fire and plumes of smoke could be seen rising from the targeted location," it added.</p>

<h2><strong>IDF on social media&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>On X, formerly Twitter, the Israel Defense Forces reported that its fighter jets struck two sites of the terrorist organisation Hezbollah in the area of Beqaa Valley in Lebanon.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The sites belong to Hezbollah’s aerial forces that planned and carried out various attacks against Israel," said IDF.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">IDF fighter jets struck 2 Hezbollah terrorist organisation sites in the area of the Beqaa Valley in Lebanon. The sites belong to Hezbollah’s aerial forces that planned and carried out various attacks against Israel.</p>
— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) <a href="https://twitter.com/IDF/status/1767321345585565944?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>The IDF has also released footage of the attack.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">IDF: A short while ago, IDF fighter jets struck two Hezbollah terrorist organization sites in the area of the Beqaa Valley in Lebanon. The sites belong to Hezbollah’s aerial forces that planned and carried out various attacks against the State of Israel.<br />
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The strikes were in… <a href="https://t.co/EzurS5PTpb">pic.twitter.com/EzurS5PTpb</a></p>
— Joe Truzman (@JoeTruzman) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoeTruzman/status/1767316370688295405?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h5>&nbsp;</h5>

<p>Since&nbsp;October 8, the day after Hamas launched an attack on Israel that left 1,200 people dead,&nbsp;Hamas ally Hezbollah and Israel have exchanged near-daily fire. The strikes have largely remained confined to border regions, but several have hit Hezbollah positions further north in recent weeks, raising fears of a full-blown conflict.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-verifying-if-hamas-military-leader-marwan-issa-was-killed-in-gaza-699109">Israel ‘verifying’ if Hamas military leader Marwan Issa was killed in Gaza</a></strong></p>

<p>The city of Baalbek, in the Beqaa valley, is a Hezbollah bastion that borders Syria. Previously, on&nbsp;February 26, Israeli strikes targeted Baalbek, located about 100 km (62.14 miles) from the border. In what was the deepest such raid into Lebanese territory since the hostilities began, two Hezbollah members were killed.</p>

<p>Hezbollah has repeatedly said that it would stop its attacks on Israel only after a ceasefire in Gaza. However, in a recent statement, Israeli defence minister Yoav Gallant said that any truce would not change Israel's goal of pushing Hezbollah out of southern Lebanon, by force or diplomacy.</p>

<p>According to an AFP tally, since the start of the Israel-Hamas war in October, at least 316 people—mainly Hezbollah fighters—and 53 civilians have been killed in Lebanon.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)<br />
<br />
<strong>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos, and videos.</strong></em></p>


Israel on Monday (Mar 11) launched fresh airstrikes on what it said were Hezbollah sites near Lebanon's eastern city of Baalbek marking the second raid in the region since cross-border hostilities began after the Gaza war.

Israel on Monday (Mar 11) launched fresh airstrikes on what it said were Hezbollah sites near Lebanon's eastern city of Baalbek marking the second raid in the region since cross-border hostilities began after the Gaza war. Fatalities As per an agency AFP report citing security sources, the strikes had killed one person and injured others. Bashir Khader, the governor of Baalbek, also confirmed the strikes and the fatality after Israel launched four strikes, reports Reuters. Also read | Israeli PM Netanyahu meets India's NSA Ajit Doval; discusses humanitarian assistance amid ongoing war Reportedly, one of the strikes hit the southern entrance to the city of Baalbek, at least 2 km (1.24 miles) from ancient Roman ruins, the security sources said. The three other strikes hit near the city of Taraya, 20 km (12.4 miles) west of Baalbek, they added. AFP, on the other hand, reported that "Israeli aircraft targeted a former Hezbollah building near Dar Al Amal hospital." The news agency's security source also said that Israel had "conducted another raid on a warehouse west of Baalbek". Lebanon's state-run National News Agency (NNA) also reported Israeli airstrikes, saying they "targeted a residential building in the town of Ansar … south of Baalbek". "Fire and plumes of smoke could be seen rising from the targeted location," it added. IDF on social media On X, formerly Twitter, the Israel Defense Forces reported that its fighter jets struck two sites of the terrorist organisation Hezbollah in the area of Beqaa Valley in Lebanon. "The sites belong to Hezbollah’s aerial forces that planned and carried out various attacks against Israel," said IDF. IDF fighter jets struck 2 Hezbollah terrorist organisation sites in the area of the Beqaa Valley in Lebanon. The sites belong to Hezbollah’s aerial forces that planned and carried out various attacks against Israel. — Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) March 11, 2024 × The IDF has also released footage of the attack. IDF: A short while ago, IDF fighter jets struck two Hezbollah terrorist organization sites in the area of the Beqaa Valley in Lebanon. The sites belong to Hezbollah’s aerial forces that planned and carried out various attacks against the State of Israel. The strikes were in… pic.twitter.com/EzurS5PTpb — Joe Truzman (@JoeTruzman) March 11, 2024 × Since October 8, the day after Hamas launched an attack on Israel that left 1,200 people dead, Hamas ally Hezbollah and Israel have exchanged near-daily fire. The strikes have largely remained confined to border regions, but several have hit Hezbollah positions further north in recent weeks, raising fears of a full-blown conflict. Also read | Israel ‘verifying’ if Hamas military leader Marwan Issa was killed in Gaza The city of Baalbek, in the Beqaa valley, is a Hezbollah bastion that borders Syria. Previously, on February 26, Israeli strikes targeted Baalbek, located about 100 km (62.14 miles) from the border. In what was the deepest such raid into Lebanese territory since the hostilities began, two Hezbollah members were killed. Hezbollah has repeatedly said that it would stop its attacks on Israel only after a ceasefire in Gaza. However, in a recent statement, Israeli defence minister Yoav Gallant said that any truce would not change Israel's goal of pushing Hezbollah out of southern Lebanon, by force or diplomacy. According to an AFP tally, since the start of the Israel-Hamas war in October, at least 316 people—mainly Hezbollah fighters—and 53 civilians have been killed in Lebanon. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos, and videos.

Israel launches airstrikes against Hezbollah targets near Lebanon's Baalbek, one killed

<p>It is not just Israel vs Hamas but also Israel vs Hezbollah. Why? Lebanon's Hezbollah, a Shiite militant group backed by Iran, has long been a significant player in the Middle East. Amid the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas, Hezbollah, lending support to Hamas, is targeting Israeli military positions in the disputed Shebaa Farms area by raining down its rockets. The Shiite group boasted that the move was purportedly "in solidarity" with the Palestinian people following an unprecedented attack by Hamas gunmen from Gaza into Israeli territory.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“On the path to liberate the remaining part of our occupied Lebanese land and in solidarity with the victorious Palestinian resistance and the steadfast Palestinian people, the groups of the martyr commander Hajj Imad Moghniyeh in the Islamic Resistance carried out an attack this Sunday, October 08, 2023, targeting 3 Zionist occupation sites in the occupied Lebanese Shebaa Farms region,” Hezbollah said in a statement.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/policeman-in-egypt-kills-two-israeli-tourists-one-egyptian-in-alexandria-reports-644012">Policeman in Egypt kills 2 Israeli tourists, 1 Egyptian in Alexandria: Reports</a></p>

<p>To understand Hezbollah's moves on the Israel-Hamas war chessboard and its broader repercussions, it is essential to first know about its origins, military capabilities, and regional influence.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Rise of Hezbollah</strong></h2>

<p>Hezbollah or "Party of God", was founded in 1982 by Iran's Revolutionary Guards. Its primary objectives were to export Iran's Islamic Revolution and combat Israeli forces that had invaded Lebanon during the Lebanese Civil War (1975-1990).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Israel's military operation aimed to eliminate the Palestinian Liberation Organisation (PLO) presence in Lebanon but also led to the occupation of parts of southern Lebanon.</p>

<p>This occupation galvanised Shiite communities in the south, who saw themselves as resisting Israeli aggression. Hezbollah aligned itself with Tehran and recruited its members from within the Lebanese Shiite Muslim community.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Following Israel's withdrawal in 2000 and the conclusion of the civil war, Hezbollah, with support from Iran, assumed the role of Israel's main enemy in Lebanon.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The most prominent display of Hezabollah's military might was in 2006 during a five-week war with Israel. This conflict erupted when Hezbollah crossed into Israel and abducted&nbsp;two soldiers while killing others.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What is&nbsp;Hezbollah's military might?&nbsp;</strong>&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Hezbollah claims that its rockets can reach all parts of Israel. It has received extensive military assistance from Iran since its inception.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-how-a-desert-music-festival-became-site-of-hamas-terror-attack-hostage-taking-643977">How a desert music festival became site of Hamas terror attack</a></p>

<p>Over the years, it has amassed a formidable arsenal of rockets, missiles, and other weaponry. This support allows Hezbollah to maintain a deterrent against Israel.</p>

<p>The group also deployed forces into Syria in 2012 to support President Bashar al-Assad against predominantly Sunni rebel factions. Hezbollah now boasts precision rockets.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In 2021, its leader, Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, asserted that Hezbollah had 100,000 fighters. Some estimates indicate Iran provided hundreds of millions of dollars annually to the group.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Regional influence</strong></h2>

<p>Hezbollah's influence extends far beyond Lebanon. The group maintains deep ties with other Iran-backed factions in the region, including Palestinian groups like Hamas and Islamic Jihad.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Amid the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas, Hezbollah claimed direct contact with the Palestinian resistance leadership.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hezbollah has been involved in training Iran-backed groups in Iraq and has participated in combat operations there. While Saudi Arabia alleges that Hezbollah has supported Iran-allied Houthi rebels in Yemen, the group vehemently denies these claims.</p>

<h2><strong>Hezbollah's foothold in Lebanon</strong></h2>

<p>Hezbollah holds seats in the Lebanese parliament and key ministerial positions. With this political involvement, Hezbollah wields significant influence in the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, Lebanese factions opposed to Hezbollah assert that the group has undermined the state and has unilaterally led Lebanon into conflicts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When the Lebanese government pledged to take action against Hezbollah's military communications network, a power struggle erupted in 2008, pitting Hezbollah fighters against Lebanese adversaries backed by Western countries and Saudi Arabia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hezbollah has been accused of participating in or orchestrating various attacks on Western targets. It includes the 1983 US Embassy and Marine barracks bombings in Beirut, Lebanon, which killed hundreds of Americans. Another one is the 1985 hijacking of TWA Flight 847, leading to the murder of a US Navy diver. 1992 and 1994 bombings in Argentina targeting the Israeli Embassy and a Jewish community centre, are other such incidents.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-palestine-conflict-bodies-strewn-on-streets-of-israeli-town-644104">Israel-Palestine Conflict: Bodies strewn on streets of Israeli town</a></strong></p>

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<p>Western nations, including the United States, designate Hezbollah as a terrorist organisation, and so do Saudi Arabia. The European Union, however, classifies only Hezbollah's military wing as a terrorist group, while its political wing remains unlisted.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The lands of Israel and Gaza stand are bearing the brunt of a relentless torrent of violence that has drenched their soil with blood.&nbsp;The Israeli government said that it is engaged in a war against the Palestinian militant group Hamas, which controls Gaza. Israel views these groups as threats to its security. Hezbollah, on the other hand, has positioned itself as a staunch supporter of Palestinian resistance against Israeli "occupation". The power struggle is getting real... by the minute.&nbsp;</p>

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It is not just Israel vs Hamas but also Israel vs Hezbollah. Why? Lebanon's Hezbollah, a Shiite militant group backed by Iran, has long been a significant player in the Middle East.

It is not just Israel vs Hamas but also Israel vs Hezbollah. Why? Lebanon's Hezbollah, a Shiite militant group backed by Iran, has long been a significant player in the Middle East. Amid the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas, Hezbollah, lending support to Hamas, is targeting Israeli military positions in the disputed Shebaa Farms area by raining down its rockets. The Shiite group boasted that the move was purportedly "in solidarity" with the Palestinian people following an unprecedented attack by Hamas gunmen from Gaza into Israeli territory. “On the path to liberate the remaining part of our occupied Lebanese land and in solidarity with the victorious Palestinian resistance and the steadfast Palestinian people, the groups of the martyr commander Hajj Imad Moghniyeh in the Islamic Resistance carried out an attack this Sunday, October 08, 2023, targeting 3 Zionist occupation sites in the occupied Lebanese Shebaa Farms region,” Hezbollah said in a statement. Also Read | Policeman in Egypt kills 2 Israeli tourists, 1 Egyptian in Alexandria: Reports To understand Hezbollah's moves on the Israel-Hamas war chessboard and its broader repercussions, it is essential to first know about its origins, military capabilities, and regional influence. Rise of Hezbollah Hezbollah or "Party of God", was founded in 1982 by Iran's Revolutionary Guards. Its primary objectives were to export Iran's Islamic Revolution and combat Israeli forces that had invaded Lebanon during the Lebanese Civil War (1975-1990). Israel's military operation aimed to eliminate the Palestinian Liberation Organisation (PLO) presence in Lebanon but also led to the occupation of parts of southern Lebanon. This occupation galvanised Shiite communities in the south, who saw themselves as resisting Israeli aggression. Hezbollah aligned itself with Tehran and recruited its members from within the Lebanese Shiite Muslim community. Following Israel's withdrawal in 2000 and the conclusion of the civil war, Hezbollah, with support from Iran, assumed the role of Israel's main enemy in Lebanon. The most prominent display of Hezabollah's military might was in 2006 during a five-week war with Israel. This conflict erupted when Hezbollah crossed into Israel and abducted two soldiers while killing others. What is Hezbollah's military might? Hezbollah claims that its rockets can reach all parts of Israel. It has received extensive military assistance from Iran since its inception. Also Read | How a desert music festival became site of Hamas terror attack Over the years, it has amassed a formidable arsenal of rockets, missiles, and other weaponry. This support allows Hezbollah to maintain a deterrent against Israel. The group also deployed forces into Syria in 2012 to support President Bashar al-Assad against predominantly Sunni rebel factions. Hezbollah now boasts precision rockets. In 2021, its leader, Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, asserted that Hezbollah had 100,000 fighters. Some estimates indicate Iran provided hundreds of millions of dollars annually to the group. Regional influence Hezbollah's influence extends far beyond Lebanon. The group maintains deep ties with other Iran-backed factions in the region, including Palestinian groups like Hamas and Islamic Jihad. Amid the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas, Hezbollah claimed direct contact with the Palestinian resistance leadership. Hezbollah has been involved in training Iran-backed groups in Iraq and has participated in combat operations there. While Saudi Arabia alleges that Hezbollah has supported Iran-allied Houthi rebels in Yemen, the group vehemently denies these claims. Hezbollah's foothold in Lebanon Hezbollah holds seats in the Lebanese parliament and key ministerial positions. With this political involvement, Hezbollah wields significant influence in the country. However, Lebanese factions opposed to Hezbollah assert that the group has undermined the state and has unilaterally led Lebanon into conflicts. When the Lebanese government pledged to take action against Hezbollah's military communications network, a power struggle erupted in 2008, pitting Hezbollah fighters against Lebanese adversaries backed by Western countries and Saudi Arabia. Hezbollah has been accused of participating in or orchestrating various attacks on Western targets. It includes the 1983 US Embassy and Marine barracks bombings in Beirut, Lebanon, which killed hundreds of Americans. Another one is the 1985 hijacking of TWA Flight 847, leading to the murder of a US Navy diver. 1992 and 1994 bombings in Argentina targeting the Israeli Embassy and a Jewish community centre, are other such incidents. Watch | Israel-Palestine Conflict: Bodies strewn on streets of Israeli town × Western nations, including the United States, designate Hezbollah as a terrorist organisation, and so do Saudi Arabia. The European Union, however, classifies only Hezbollah's military wing as a terrorist group, while its political wing remains unlisted. The lands of Israel and Gaza stand are bearing the brunt of a relentless torrent of violence that has drenched their soil with blood. The Israeli government said that it is engaged in a war against the Palestinian militant group Hamas, which controls Gaza. Israel views these groups as threats to its security. Hezbollah, on the other hand, has positioned itself as a staunch supporter of Palestinian resistance against Israeli "occupation". The power struggle is getting real... by the minute. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Explained | What is Hezbollah and why is it raining down rockets on Israel, supporting Hamas?

Israel and the Iranian-backed Hezbollah last fought a war in 2006, and tensions on the Israel-Lebanon border have been running high

Hezbollah will avenge slain fighter, leader warns Israel