Israel's military has deployed additional troops to southern Lebanon to bolster defenses against ongoing Hezbollah attacks. Defense Minister Israel Katz confirmed the move, stating the deployment enhances forward defense capabilities.
The Israeli Air Force conducted strikes on Hezbollah targets in Beirut for a second consecutive day. The military announced simultaneous strikes in Tehran and Beirut, targeting what it termed the "Iranian terror regime and the Hezbollah terrorist organisation."
Hezbollah claimed responsibility for drone attacks on Israeli bases, including Ramat David air base and Meron, stating the actions were retaliation for the killing of Iran's Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Israeli forces responded with strikes on Hezbollah infrastructure in Beirut's southern suburbs and across southern and eastern Lebanon.
Israel reported killing a senior Hezbollah official, Hussein Mokaled, and destroying over 70 Hezbollah weapons storage and launch sites. In Lebanon, the health ministry reported at least 52 killed and 154 injured.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun condemned Hezbollah's involvement, warning against dragging the country into conflict. Prime Minister Nawaf Salam announced a total ban on Hezbollah military activities, demanding the group surrender its weapons, calling the attacks "irresponsible acts."
Hezbollah asserted its attacks were in defense of Lebanon and in response to continued Israeli strikes, despite a 2024 ceasefire. Israel holds Hezbollah responsible for the escalation.
Israel issued evacuation orders for approximately 50 communities in southern and eastern Lebanon, leading to mass displacement. Lebanon's Minister of Social Affairs reported 171 shelters are housing 29,000 displaced persons.