Hezbollah Rocket and Drone Attacks Spark Fires in Northern Israel

In a significant escalation of hostilities, northern Israel was targeted by rocket and drone attacks from Hezbollah on June 3, 2024. The attacks resulted in multiple fires across the region, particularly affecting the area around Kiryat Shmona. Israeli firefighting services managed to bring most of the fires under control by the following morning, but the situation left at least one home damaged and eleven individuals treated for smoke inhalation.

The attacks, which began in the late hours of June 3, prompted an immediate response from Israel’s emergency services and military. Firefighting units were deployed to the affected areas to contain the blazes and prevent further damage to residential and commercial properties. The fires were predominantly located on the outskirts of Kiryat Shmona, a city close to the Lebanese border.

The rocket and drone barrage from Hezbollah began late on June 3, with rockets and drones targeting various locations across northern Israel. The Israeli military reported that the attacks were part of a broader strategy by Hezbollah to escalate tensions and disrupt civilian life in the region. The exact number of rockets and drones used in the attack has not been disclosed, but it resulted in widespread fires that required extensive firefighting efforts.

While there were no fatalities reported, eleven individuals were treated for smoke inhalation. The fires caused significant damage to at least one home, highlighting the severe impact of the attacks on local communities. The affected residents were evacuated to safety, and emergency services worked throughout the night to extinguish the flames.

In response to the attacks, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) launched retaliatory strikes against Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon. The IDF confirmed that it targeted several key Hezbollah infrastructure sites to neutralize the threat and prevent further attacks. These strikes are part of an ongoing effort to maintain security along Israel’s northern border and deter further aggression from Hezbollah.

The international community has expressed concern over the escalating violence between Israel and Hezbollah. The United Nations has called for immediate de-escalation and urged both parties to engage in dialogue to resolve their differences. The United States and European Union have also condemned the attacks and reiterated their support for Israel’s right to defend itself.