The United States has warned Israel to avoid escalating tensions with Hezbollah following a rocket attack from Lebanon that killed 12 youths in the Golan Heights over the weekend. The U.S. is concerned about the potential for a broader regional conflict as Israel considers its response.
The attack, which hit a soccer field in the Druze village of Majdal Shams, has heightened fears of an all-out war. Since the onset of the Gaza conflict in October, cross-border skirmishes between Israel and Hezbollah have become frequent. On Monday, Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon reportedly killed two people on a motorcycle and injured three others. The Israeli military has stated that the strikes targeted Hezbollah operatives, but Hezbollah denies involvement in the weekend’s attack.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke with Israeli President Isaac Herzog, emphasizing the need to prevent further escalation. Blinken stressed the importance of pursuing a diplomatic solution to avoid worsening the situation for both Israeli and Lebanese civilians. The U.S., alongside France, has been advocating for negotiations to de-escalate tensions between Hezbollah and Israel.
In the wake of the rocket attack, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited the scene but faced backlash from local residents who criticized his visit as politically motivated. Some villagers rejected Netanyahu’s wreath and protested against the use of the tragedy for political gain.
Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has vowed that Hezbollah will face consequences for the attack, although Hezbollah denies responsibility. In response to the heightened tensions, Hezbollah has reportedly begun relocating precision-guided missiles, indicating preparations for possible further conflict.
Meanwhile, the Israeli military is investigating allegations of abuse at a detention center used during the Gaza conflict. Nine soldiers are under scrutiny for their conduct at the Sde Teiman facility, which has faced criticism for its conditions. The military has denied allegations of mistreatment but is making changes to the facility and relocating detainees.
The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, coupled with the international community’s calls for restraint, continues to unfold amid concerns of escalating violence and instability in the region.
