21 Sep 2024 | 06:56 PM UTC
Israel, Lebanon: Israel targets hundreds of Lebanese Hizballah rocket launchers in southern Lebanon, Sept. 21, amid escalating tensions /update 1
Israeli forces conduct some 400 strikes against Lebanese Hizballah rocket launchers in southern Lebanon Sept. 21 amid escalating tensions.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reportedly targeted some 400 Lebanese Hizballah (LH) rocket launchers across southern Lebanon on Sept. 21. The launchers had apparently been prepared to launch attacks into northern Israel. There have been no immediate reports of significant casualties; however, there has been a significant uptake in cross-border violence since the pager explosions on Sept. 17. The IDF has advised Israeli citizens to remain vigilant as further attacks remain likely over the coming hours.
Also, on Sept. 21, authorities in Israel imposed flight restrictions over northern parts of the country, from the city of Hadera northwards. The order is valid through mid-Sept. 22 and restricts flights involving recreational and agricultural aircraft; it does not apply to emergency fights by the military, police, firefighters, medical evacuations, or flights servicing oil platforms.
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. 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 in mid-September, the IDF has increased its attacks against the LH.
