Israel Vows Retaliation After Rocket Attack from Lebanon Kills 12

Post by : Elena Malik

Photo : AFP

On Sunday, Israel's security cabinet authorized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government to determine the response to a deadly rocket strike in the Golan Heights, which resulted in the deaths of 12 teenagers and children in Majdal Shams. The attack, the deadliest in Israeli or Israeli-annexed territory since the start of the Gaza conflict on October 7, 2023, has been attributed by Israel and the United States to the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah. Hezbollah, however, has denied any involvement.

The rocket, reportedly an Iranian-made missile, was said to have been launched from an area in southern Lebanon, north of the village of Chebaa. Israel’s foreign ministry has pointed fingers at Hezbollah, citing the group's possession of such weapons. The Lebanese armed group initially claimed responsibility for attacks on Israeli military sites but disassociated itself from the Majdal Shams incident.

In response, Israeli jets struck targets in southern Lebanon. Netanyahu's office stated that the cabinet authorized him and the Defense Minister to decide on the manner and timing of further responses. The U.S. has also laid blame on Hezbollah, with the White House affirming that the attack was conducted by the Lebanese group from territory it controls. Vice President Kamala Harris has reaffirmed strong U.S. support for Israel's security, while Secretary of State Antony Blinken and other officials are engaged in diplomatic efforts to prevent further escalation.

Tensions have risen, with fears of a broader regional conflict. Thousands attended funerals in Majdal Shams, a Druze village in the Golan Heights, which was captured from Syria by Israel in 1967 and subsequently annexed—a move not widely recognized internationally. The attack has intensified the ongoing exchanges of fire between Israeli forces and Hezbollah, a powerful Iranian-backed group.

Stay informed with the latest news. Follow DXB News Network on WhatsApp Channel  

Hezbollah’s denial and Israel’s retaliatory actions come amid concerns from international bodies. The United Nations has urged restraint from both sides, warning of catastrophic regional consequences if the conflict escalates further. The situation has drawn warnings from Iran and Syria, with Iran cautioning Israel against further actions and Syria blaming Israel for the escalation.

The conflict has already displaced tens of thousands and caused significant casualties on both sides. Hezbollah’s activities, coupled with ongoing violence, have put the region on edge, raising the stakes for diplomatic and military engagements.