– Israel attacked southern Lebanon to preempt a Hezbollah attack on northern Israeli towns
– Hezbollah retaliated by firing rockets and drones at Israeli military bases and barracks
– The attacks mark a significant escalation in tensions between the two sides
– Israel declared a nationwide special situation and implemented restrictions in northern Israel and the Golan Heights
– Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to defend Israel and warned of further escalation
– Global fears of a regional conflict have increased, but both sides are expected to try to avoid full-blown war
– The US has expressed support for Israel’s right to defend itself
– Talks to end Israel’s war on Gaza are ongoing, but no diplomatic settlement is in sight.