Hezbollah fired a ballistic missile at Tel Aviv on Wednesday, Sept. 25, marking the first time the group targeted central Israel. Israel’s “David’s Sling” defense system intercepted the missile launched from southern Lebanon.
Hezbollah claimed the missile targeted Mossad’s headquarters in retaliation for Israeli strikes in Lebanon and in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza, where Israel’s military operations against Hamas continue.
The missile intercept came after Israeli strikes killed over 500 people in Lebanon, including dozens of children, making Monday, Sept. 23, the deadliest day in Lebanon in nearly two decades.
Israel responded swiftly, launching over 280 airstrikes on Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon. They targeted key infrastructure and missile launchers. At least 50 people were killed and over 200 injured.
Hezbollah continued its rocket attacks on northern Israel, launching 40 projectiles on Wednesday, Sept. 25.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasized diplomatic efforts to prevent escalation, warning of a larger regional conflict.
“The risk remains acute,” Blinken said.
Lebanese officials estimate over half a million have fled their homes since the conflict worsened. Israel bolstered its northern border forces, calling up reserve brigades and simulating ground combat preparations.
Both sides refuse to back down. Israel aims to ensure northern citizens’ safety and weaken Hezbollah’s military capabilities, while Hezbollah vows to resist until Israeli operations in Gaza cease.
