Iran’s new president, Masoud Pezeshkian, has issued a stern warning to Israel against attacking Lebanon, following a deadly rocket strike in the Israeli-annexed Golan Heights blamed on Hezbollah. The strike, which killed 12 youths, has escalated tensions between Israel and Lebanon, with both sides accusing each other of responsibility. Iran has vehemently condemned Israel’s actions, denouncing its annexation of the Golan Heights and its ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Air France and Lufthansa have suspended flights to Beirut following Israel’s threat of retaliation for a deadly rocket attack launched from Lebanon. The incident has heightened fears of the conflict spreading from Gaza to Lebanon, causing travel disruptions and anxiety for passengers at Beirut airport.
The Indian Embassy in Lebanon has advised Indian nationals residing in or planning to travel to the country to exercise caution following Israel’s warning to Hezbollah, sparking fears of a potential conflict. The embassy issued an emergency phone number and email address for Indian citizens in Lebanon, urging them to stay in contact.
Flights to and from Beirut have been cancelled or delayed due to insurance risks amid escalating tensions between Israel and Hezbollah. The disruptions come after a deadly rocket strike in the Golan Heights, raising concerns of a full-scale war. Several airlines, including Lufthansa, Turkish Airlines, and MEA, have announced cancellations or delays.
A rocket attack on a football field in northern Israel, blamed on Hezbollah by Israeli officials, killed 12 youngsters and wounded 18. While Hezbollah denied involvement, Israel vowed a harsh response, raising fears of a broader escalation. The attack follows escalating border tensions, with Hezbollah claiming casualties in Israeli airstrikes on Lebanese territory.
The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) carried out a drone strike in Lebanon, killing a Hamas commander responsible for attacks on Israel. This action comes amidst escalating tensions between Israel and Hezbollah, which have been trading fire across their shared border for nine months. The strike raises concerns about further escalation in the region.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has called for all parties to exercise caution on the Israel-Lebanon border following a recent escalation in violence. Starmer spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, reiterating his call for a ceasefire and humanitarian aid, and emphasizing the importance of a two-state solution. He also spoke with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, reaffirming his commitment to Palestinian rights.
Hezbollah, a Lebanese militant group, launched over 200 rockets at Israeli military bases in retaliation for the killing of one of its senior commanders. Israel intercepted many of the rockets and reported no casualties. The incident raises concerns of escalating tensions between Hezbollah and Israel, potentially leading to a full-scale war.
The Arab League has revoked the terrorist designation of Hezbollah, a Lebanon-based Iran-backed group, amid fears of the Israel-Hamas war spilling over into Lebanon. The decision is seen as a policy shift to initiate communication with Hezbollah and could be aimed at stabilizing regional tensions. This move comes as tensions rise in the region and countries urge citizens to leave Lebanon.
Both India and the United States have issued travel advisories urging their citizens to exercise caution in Lebanon due to the precarious and unpredictable security situation. The advisories highlight the volatile nature of the security environment and the potential for rapid changes.
