Hezbollah launched dozens of rockets at Israel on Saturday amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. This escalation comes in response to the killing of Hamas’s political chief Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran earlier this week. US President Joe Biden expressed hope that Iran would “stand down” despite its threats to attack Israel.
Hezbollah claimed that its rocket attacks on Moshav Beit Hillel in Israel resulted in injuries to civilians. The group stated that these attacks were in retaliation for Israel’s strikes on Kfar Kela and Deir Siriane in Lebanon, as well as in response to an Israeli strike in Beirut that killed Fuad Shukr, a senior military commander from Hezbollah. International media reported no casualties from the Hezbollah attack. According to an Axios report, three US and Israeli officials had anticipated an Iranian attack on Israel as early as Monday.
Additionally, the US embassy in Lebanon advised its citizens to leave the country due to fears of a potential all-out war between Israel and Hezbollah and a broader regional conflict. Despite the suspension and cancellation of some flights, the embassy stated that “commercial transportation options to leave Lebanon remain available.”
“We encourage those who wish to leave Lebanon to book any available ticket, even if the flight doesn’t depart immediately or follow their preferred route.” The UK government has also urged its citizens in Lebanon to leave the country immediately. In a statement, the foreign ministry said British nationals should depart the Middle Eastern country “now while commercial options remain available.” Foreign Minister David Lammy stated, “Tensions are high, and the situation could deteriorate rapidly.” “While we are working around the clock to strengthen our consular presence in Lebanon, my message to British nationals is clear — leave now.” The Foreign Office stated it was “strengthening” its support for Britons in the country by deploying border force, consular officials, and military personnel to the region.
