Oct 07,V7N- Israel conducted airstrikes in Lebanon and the Gaza Strip as tensions escalated ahead of the one-year anniversary of the October 7 attacks that ignited its ongoing conflict. Israel's Defense Minister stated that all options for retaliation against Iran remain on the table.Hezbollah launched rockets that penetrated Israeli air defenses, striking Haifa, Israel's third-largest city, and causing damage and injuries.

The militant group claimed responsibility for targeting a military site near Haifa with "Fadi 1" missiles. In response, Israeli airstrikes targeted Hezbollah positions in southern Beirut, marking the most intense bombardment of the Lebanese capital since the conflict escalated last month.

The Israeli military reported that its fighter jets struck Hezbollah's Intelligence Headquarters and weapons storage facilities in Beirut, as well as other locations in southern Lebanon and the Beqaa Valley. The conflict has roots in the Hamas-led attacks on Israel last year, which resulted in significant casualties and prompted a devastating Israeli offensive in Gaza.As the anniversary approaches, pro-Palestinian protests have erupted globally, with demonstrations occurring in cities from Jakarta to Istanbul.

Iran has also intensified its military actions, launching missile attacks on Israel in response to its operations in Lebanon and Gaza, where Hezbollah and Hamas are aligned with Tehran.Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant emphasized that Israel would independently determine its response to Iran, despite coordinating closely with the U.S. He indicated that Israel possesses the capability to strike targets both near and far.

While the U.S. has expressed reluctance to support strikes on Iranian nuclear sites, discussions regarding Israeli attacks on Iranian oil facilities are ongoing.In Lebanon, the situation remains dire, with reports of civilian casualties from Israeli airstrikes. The Lebanese health ministry indicated that over 2,000 people have died in the conflict, with many casualties occurring in recent weeks.

The United Nations has raised concerns about potential violations of international law due to Israeli strikes on civilian infrastructure.As the conflict continues to unfold, Israel has issued new evacuation orders for residents in southern Beirut and declared additional areas along its northern border as closed military zones. The situation remains tense, with fears of further escalation into a broader regional conflict.

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