In a significant escalation of tensions, the Israeli military on Saturday launched an airstrike targeting Hezbollah members inside a mosque in southern Lebanon’s Bint Jbeil. This marked the first such attack since clashes erupted between Israel and the militant group last year. The mosque was reportedly located adjacent to the Salah Ghandour Hospital.
The Israeli military asserted that the mosque served as a command center for Hezbollah, claiming it was used to plan and execute attacks against Israeli troops and the state. However, the hospital, which is operated by the Hezbollah-affiliated Islamic Health Committee, reported that nine of its medical and nursing staff were wounded by the heavy strikes. The hospital stated that most of the injuries were serious, and they had received an Israeli warning to evacuate prior to the airstrike.
Prior to the attack, the IDF reported that it had sent text messages to residents and contacted local officials in nearby villages, urging them to immediately cease any terrorist activities taking place at the hospital.
Meanwhile, in the midst of these heightened tensions, a US State Department official confirmed to CNN that Israel has not provided any assurances to the Biden administration that it will target Iran’s nuclear facilities in retaliation for any potential actions. Earlier this week, US President Joe Biden had advised Israel against attacking Iran’s nuclear facilities, urging them to exercise wisdom alongside strength.
The State Department official, while not offering any guarantees, expressed their hope that Israel would prioritize both wisdom and strength in their response. This statement comes as the international community closely monitors the evolving situation in the region, concerned about the potential for further escalation and its consequences.
