Tel Aviv: Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant has declared a 48-hour nationwide state of emergency following the launch of “pre-emptive strikes” by the Israeli military in Lebanon, significantly heightening tensions across the Middle East.
The region has been simmering with unease for weeks, particularly after Hezbollah and Iran vowed retaliation for an Israeli airstrike in Beirut that killed a senior Hezbollah commander, along with the assassination of Hamas’s political leader in Tehran, an attack also attributed to Israel.
“The state of emergency declaration allows the IDF (Israeli military) to issue directives to Israeli citizens, including restrictions on gatherings and the closure of relevant sites,” Gallant stated in an official release from his office. He expressed concern about a “high probability of an attack against the civilian population” in areas previously not covered by local emergency measures. Consequently, he announced an expanded “special situation” on the home front across additional parts of the country, effective for 48 hours starting at 6:00 am.
In parallel, the Israeli Defence Ministry reported that Gallant had briefed US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin on the evolving situation. Gallant emphasized Israel’s defensive actions, stating, “We have executed precise strikes in Lebanon to neutralize an imminent threat to Israeli citizens.” He assured Austin of Israel’s vigilance in Beirut and affirmed Israel’s commitment to defending its populace using all available means.
Israeli military Chief of General Staff Herzi Halevi was seen directing operations in a location identified as Tel Aviv, as shown in an image released by the Israel Defense Forces.
Hezbollah responded forcefully, announcing on Sunday that it had fired over 320 rockets at Israel overnight, targeting various military installations. Israel, meanwhile, confirmed that it was continuing its pre-emptive strikes against the militant group. Hezbollah’s statement highlighted that “more than 320 Katyusha rockets have been launched towards enemy positions,” specifying that 11 Israeli bases and barracks were targeted. The group declared the “first phase” of its operations a “total success,” noting that this phase aimed to facilitate the deployment of attack drones deeper into Israeli territory.
The United States has reiterated its support for Israel’s right to self-defense. Following President Joe Biden’s directive, senior US officials have been in continuous communication with their Israeli counterparts. US National Security Council spokesman Sean Savett affirmed in a statement, “We will continue to support Israel’s right to defend itself and work toward regional stability.”
Late Saturday, the Pentagon confirmed that the United States remains ready to assist in the defense of its ally. A Pentagon spokesman reiterated, “We continue to closely monitor the situation and have made it clear that the US is positioned to support the defense of Israel.”