The Israeli military launched “preemptive” strikes against Hezbollah in Lebanon, following Hezbollah’s attacks in response to the killing of their top commander.

This escalation is one of the most serious exchanges between the two, raising fears of a broader conflict and prompting diplomatic efforts to reduce tensions.

Israel claimed to have destroyed thousands of Hezbollah rocket launchers, while Hezbollah responded with rocket and drone strikes, CNN has reported.

Casualties were reported on both sides, with concerns that the conflict may not yet be over.

Written by B.C. Begley