21 Sep 2024 | 11:54 AM UTC
Israel, Lebanon: Israel targets multiple locations in southern Lebanon, Sept. 21, amid heightened tensions
Israel Defense Forces conduct strikes against multiple Hizballah sites in southern Lebanon on Sept. 21 amid heightened tensions.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) targeted around 15 locations in strikes on southern Lebanon the afternoon of Sept. 21. There have been no immediate reports of significant casualties or material damage. In response, Lebanese Hizballah (LH) fired around 60 rockets into northern Israel, including Safed and Kiryat Shmona, among others. There have been no confirmed reports of casualties or damage from the rocket fire.
Also on Sept. 21, authorities in Israel imposed flight restrictions over northern parts of the country. 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 rigs.
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.
