27 Jul 2024 | 05:28 PM UTC
Israel: Risk of conflict escalation increases after rocket attack kills at least six, wounds more than 30 others in Majdal Shams July 27
Rocket attack hits soccer field in Majdal Shams, Golan Heights, Israel, July 27, killing at least six; risk of conflict escalation rises.
The risk of conflict escalation between Israel and the Lebanese Hizballah (LH) group has greatly increased after a rocket attack hit a soccer field in the town of Majdal Shams in the Israeli-controlled Golan Heights on July 27. The rocket impact killed at least six people and wounded more than 30 others; the official casualty count will likely rise over the short term. Conflicting reports have circulated through media sources regarding whether the LH has claimed responsibility for the attack; shortly after 20:00, LH was reportedly denying responsibility. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have nonetheless said that LH was behind the attack, which came after the recent killing of four of LH's Radwan Force personnel in southern Lebanon.
Authorities will almost certainly maintain a heightened security presence around the impact site through at least late July 27. Transport and business disruptions are likely in the affected area.
Israeli forces will probably carry out retaliatory strikes on suspected LH targets in southern Lebanon over the coming hours. LH fighters will likely fire additional projectiles and/or drones toward sites in northern Israel in response to any significant Israeli retaliatory strikes.
Avoid the vicinity of the impact site until authorities have given the all-clear and vacated the area. If incoming fire is reported in the general vicinity, stay indoors and away from windows and exterior walls. If possible, move to the ground floor or basement. Heed the instructions of local security personnel. Maintain contact with your country's diplomatic mission.
