In a significant security operation, the Israel Defense Force (IDF) thwarted a weapon smuggling attempt along the Egyptian border. IDF soldiers, vigilant on their surveillance cameras, detected a drone attempting to transport weapons into Israeli territory. Swift action was taken, resulting in the drone being shot down. The downed drone was carrying eight handguns and magazines, highlighting the seriousness of the attempted smuggling operation. Earlier in the day, IDF officials apprehended four Palestinians in the vicinity of the Nabi Musa holy site, located near the West Bank city of Jericho. The individuals were found in possession of M-16 rifles.
Meanwhile, Israel escalated its offensive in Gaza, leading to a significant loss of life. The Israeli military confirmed airstrikes against what they described as a “Hamas terror target.” However, Gaza authorities reported a death toll of 87, a figure the IDF disputed. The Israeli military further stated that its operations extended to both northern, central, and southern regions of Gaza.
Across the border in Lebanon, Israel launched a barrage of strikes against Hezbollah targets. Among the sites struck was Hezbollah’s central command center in Beirut, along with an underground weapons manufacturing unit. In southern Lebanon, Israeli strikes targeted numerous locations, including the city of Nabatiyeh for the third time this week. Adding to the humanitarian crisis, an Israeli strike hit a center for rescue workers affiliated with Hezbollah in Deir Al-Zahrani, partially destroying the facility.
These developments come amidst escalating tensions between Israel and its neighbors, prompting international concern over the potential for further escalation.