On August 25, 2024, at approximately 4:30 a.m., the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) conducted a preemptive strike to disrupt a planned missile and rocket launch by Hezbollah aimed at northern and central Israel. This operation was in response to intelligence indicating that Hezbollah intended to retaliate for the elimination of Fouad Shakar in Beirut on July 30. The IDF targeted over 40 missile-loaded launch sites in southern Lebanon using approximately 100 aircraft. Despite this, Hezbollah proceeded with the launch of over 200 Grad rockets and 20 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), primarily targeting civilian areas in northern Israel.
The IDF's actions appear to have interfered with Hezbollah's broader plan, which included a coordinated attack on both northern and central Israel. This plan reportedly involved launching a large number of rockets as a diversion, while simultane ...
ously targeting key sites in central Israel, such as the military intelligence compound in Glilot, with more precise strikes.
Over the past month, the IDF has escalated its operations against Hezbollah, resulting in the deaths of 41 Hezbollah operatives and several members of allied groups in Lebanon. In retaliation, Hezbollah has conducted multiple attacks, including significant rocket and missile launches aimed at northern Israel.
Hezbollah has publicly disputed the IDF’s claims of success in the preemptive operation, asserting that its strike proceeded as intended and signaling the potential for further actions. The IDF continues its preventive strikes in southern Lebanon. Hezbollah's Secretary-General, Hassan Nasrallah, is expected to address the situation later today.
The situation remains dynamic, with the potential for further escalation depending on the actions of both parties in the coming days.
