Israel intensifies airstrikes on Hezbollah locations in Lebanon, resulting in damages; Houthi rebel prime minister reportedly assassinated in Yemen
In a significant escalation of its military campaign against Iran-backed groups, Israel conducted dual strikes on Hezbollah positions in Lebanon and the Yemeni government, including the prime minister, Ahmed al-Rahawi.
The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) announced fresh airstrikes on Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon on Sunday, targeting military infrastructure, including underground infrastructure, in the Beaufort Ridge area. This marks an expansion of Israel's regional offensive, following similar strikes in Palestine, Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, Yemen, and Iran itself in recent days.
The IDF stated that the targeted site and activities within it violate understandings between Israel and Lebanon. However, the Lebanese authorities have not yet commented on the airstrikes.
The airstrike on the Yemeni government, including the prime minister, is a significant escalation. On Saturday, the Houthis announced the killing of Yemen's prime minister, Ahmed al-Rahawi, in an Israeli airstrike in Sanaa, Yemen. The Houthis did not specify the exact number of ministers killed or wounded in the airstrike.
Ansar Allah, the political wing of the Houthis, issued a warning to Israel, stating that "dark days await" in retaliation for the assassination of Ahmed al-Rahawi. The Houthis also called the Israeli attack a "massacre" and warned Israel of severe retaliation.
The Houthis made this statement during a routine government workshop following the confirmation of Ahmed al-Rahawi's death. The workshop was originally intended to evaluate the Yemeni government's annual performance.
The escalation in strikes by Israel against Iran-backed groups has drawn renewed warnings from Houthi leadership. The Houthis are a Zaidi Shia Muslim political and military movement based in Yemen.
The IDF, on the other hand, did not provide further details about the airstrikes or any potential casualties. The Israeli government has not yet issued a formal statement regarding the strikes.
This series of events marks a dangerous escalation in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran-backed groups in the region. Both sides have shown a willingness to use military force to achieve their objectives, and the potential for further escalation remains high.
