Israel, Lebanon: Heightened tensions likely through early April following over 30 rocket launches from Lebanon into Israeli territory April 6 /update 3

Event

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have confirmed that 34 rockets were launched from Lebanese territory on April 6. The IDF Aerial Defense Array intercepted 25 of the rockets; five projectiles landed within Israeli territory, and the other four are under investigation. Three mortar shells have also been fired from the Lebanese territory toward the Israeli town of Metulla; the mortar shells landed in open areas, but authorities have advised residents to shelter in place until further notice.

Rocket sirens sounded earlier during the afternoon of April 6 across the Galilee region, including Metzuba, Shlomi, Betzet, Hanita, and Idmit. The IDF initially confirmed the interception of one rocket. At least two people have been wounded as a result of the projectile fires.

The Israeli Airports Authority has closed the airspace in the country's northern region amid the projectile fires. Haifa Airport (HFA) and Rosh Pina Airport (RPN) have reportedly ceased operations. Flights, however, have not yet been disrupted at Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV).

Authorities will likely maintain a heightened security posture in the Northern District over the coming hours and days. The IDF will almost certainly conduct retaliatory strikes against militant bases and rocket launch sites in Lebanon. Precautionary measures, such as evacuations, are possible in affected areas.

Context

The Lebanese Army has stated it deployed units to locate the launch sites in southern Lebanon and has found a number of rocket launchers and rockets in Zibqin and Qalila. This statement comes as no group has claimed responsibility for the rocket attacks. While the Lebanese militant group, Hizballah, was initially believed to be the most likely culprit, the IDF has stated that Hamas, the Palestinian militant group based in the Gaza Strip, is behind the barrage of rockets. The IDF has also stated that Lebanon is responsible when rockets are launched from its territory and it would look into whether the Iranians were involved in the incident.

These tensions were stoked by the April 4-5 clashes at the Temple Mount/Al-Haram as-Sharif compound in East Jerusalem. Israeli security forces stormed the Al-Aqsa Mosque after Palestinian worshippers barricaded themselves inside and refused to leave. The ensuing clashes left dozens of Palestinians wounded, with some 350 being arrested. Gaza-based militants have continued to launch projectiles into southern Israel since the incident at the mosque. Hizballah had stated earlier that it was supporting all measures taken by Palestinian militant groups against the Israeli government.

Advice

Strictly heed the instructions of authorities. If incoming mortar rounds or rockets are reported or warning sirens sound in the general vicinity, report to the nearest bomb shelter and await further instructions from authorities. If there is no shelter nearby, stay indoors, away from windows and exterior walls. If possible, move to a ground floor or basement. Reconfirm all flights to and from Israel in the coming days.