Israel, Lebanon: Reports of ongoing clashes near the Sheba'a Farms area along the border early Oct. 8

Event

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) states that it has carried out retaliatory artillery and drone strikes in southern Lebanon early Oct. 8. The operation follows the firing of dozens of rockets and mortar shells from Lebanon into Israeli territory by Hizballah militants; the projectiles struck an Israeli military post in the Israeli-occupied Sheba'a Farms area near the Israel-Lebanon border. Hizballah claims that it is targeting several Israeli military positions in the Sheba'a Farms area. An IDF unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) reportedly struck Hizballah infrastructure in the Mount Dov region. There are no immediate reports of damage or casualties.

Heightened security measures are likely along the Israel-Lebanon border over the coming days. Further cross-border attacks remain possible. The Israeli military could conduct additional retaliatory airstrikes or artillery fire against alleged militant targets in southern Lebanon. Precautionary measures, such as evacuations, are possible in impacted areas.

Advice

Monitor local media and abide by security forces' directives. 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.