Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant were granted authority by the Israeli security cabinet to decide on the manner and timing of a response to a deadly rocket attack in the Golan Heights that killed 12 people, including children playing soccer. The IDF identified the rocket used in the attack as belonging to Hezbollah, but Hezbollah has denied involvement. The security cabinet meeting came after tensions were running high on both sides of the Israel-Lebanon border in anticipation of an escalation in hostilities.
The attack took place on Saturday evening at a soccer field in Majdal Shams, a town located on the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights. The victims were members of the Druze community. The incident marked the deadliest cross-border attack between Israel and Lebanon since hostilities began earlier this year.
The Western powers are urging Israel to show restraint in its response, while also condemning Hezbollah for the attack. White House National Security Council spokesperson Adrienne Watson issued a statement blaming Hezbollah for the strike and calling on it to be universally condemned.
Meanwhile, Middle East Airlines delayed several flights to Beirut due to Israeli strikes in Lebanon. The IDF announced that it had struck targets deep inside Lebanon overnight in response to the attack. Royal Jordanian Airlines also considered rescheduling a flight from Amman to Beirut.
The Golan Heights have been occupied by Israel since 1967, and the area has seen frequent clashes between Israeli forces and various militant groups based in Syria and Lebanon. The latest escalation comes amid ongoing tensions between Israel and both countries over a number of issues, including border disputes, water rights, and military activity.
The attack on the soccer field in Majdal Shams has heightened fears that what has been relatively contained hostilities so far could spiral into all-out war. The international community is closely monitoring the situation and calling for de-escalation.
