An Israeli airstrike carried out in southern Lebanon has reportedly killed a member of the Hezbollah militant group, escalating tensions along the already volatile Israel-Lebanon border.
According to local sources and Lebanese media, the strike took place late Monday night in the town of Khiam, located near the Israeli border. The targeted vehicle was allegedly carrying a Hezbollah operative who has now been confirmed dead. Hezbollah has not officially released the name of the deceased, but sources close to the group confirmed he was an active field member.
Rising Tensions Along the Border
The airstrike comes amid increasing military exchanges between Israeli forces and Hezbollah in recent weeks. Since the start of the Israel-Gaza conflict in October 2023, the northern border has seen dozens of tit-for-tat strikes, raising fears of a broader regional confrontation.
The Israeli military claimed responsibility for the operation, stating it was a “precision strike against a direct threat.” Officials also emphasised that the action was taken in response to recent rocket launches into northern Israel.
Hezbollah Vows Retaliation
Shortly after the incident, They issued a brief statement vowing to respond “at the appropriate time and place.” The statement stopped short of naming the individual killed, but reiterated the group’s commitment to what it calls the “resistance effort” against Israeli aggression.
Residents in southern Lebanon reported hearing several loud explosions and witnessing drones hovering over the area before the strike. Lebanese emergency services were dispatched, and the area was sealed off for investigation.
International Concern Over Escalation
The incident has sparked renewed concern among international observers. The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) urged both sides to exercise restraint and avoid actions that could escalate the conflict further.
Middle East analysts warn that continued clashes between Hezbollah and Israel risk dragging Lebanon into a wider regional conflict, especially given the group’s strong ties to Iran.
Background on Hezbollah-Israel Clashes
They, a Shiite Muslim militant and political group based in Lebanon, has long been at odds with Israel. The two sides fought a month-long war in 2006, which ended in a fragile ceasefire but did not resolve their underlying hostilities.
Since the Israel-Hamas war reignited in Gaza, Hezbollah has increasingly launched attacks from Lebanese territory in “solidarity” with Palestinians. Israel has responded with counter-strikes targeting Hezbollah positions and operatives.
Situation Remains Volatile
Military experts believe the strike in Khayyam signals a warning from Israel about Hezbollah’s growing involvement. However, some fear that each retaliatory move brings both sides closer to full-scale war.
As of now, the border remains tense with both Israeli forces and Hezbollah operatives on high alert. Civilians in southern Lebanon and northern Israel are being urged to stay cautious amid fears of further escalation
