23 Sep 2024 | 02:49 PM UTC
Israel, Lebanon: Israel targets dozens of locations in southern Lebanon, Sept. 23, amid heightened tensions /update 3
Israel Defense Forces conduct strikes against multiple Hizballah sites in southern Lebanon Sept. 23 amid heightened tensions.
Casualties continue to rise in Lebanon as the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) targeted over 300 locations across southern Lebanon on Sept. 23 amid escalating tensions with the Lebanese Hizballah (LH). Lebanese authorities confirmed at least 275 people have been killed and more than 1,000 wounded; casualty figures are likely to rise in the coming hours as the IDF continues to strike southern Lebanon. LH continues to launch projectiles from Lebanon, targeting northern and central Israel.
Heightened security, as well as disruptions to transport and business operations, remain likely over the coming hours.
Consider avoiding nonessential travel to Lebanon, Israel, and Syria, particularly the shared border region, until the situation stabilizes. Consider departing Lebanon via commercial means while these are available. Note that commercial options in Lebanon may become increasingly limited if the security environment deteriorates. Maintain contact with diplomatic representations. 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 and away from windows and exterior walls. If possible, move to a ground floor or basement. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Reconfirm the status of transport services before departure. Review and update contingency plans.
The Israeli government has moved thousands of troops to the northern region of the country near the border with Lebanon. The Netanyahu administration intends to return thousands of Israelis who have been displaced as a result of the projectile attacks from southern Lebanon. Since the Israeli government has made the safe return of its citizens to their communities in northern Israel an official war aim, the IDF has increased its attacks against the LH.
