Introduction
In one of the most intense attacks to date, Hezbollah launched a barrage of rockets on the northern Israeli city of Haifa. Over 100 rockets were fired within half an hour, signaling the Lebanese militant group’s continued aggression amid ongoing Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) airstrikes.
The Rocket Attack on Haifa
Heavy Rocket Fire
On Tuesday, Hezbollah unleashed the heaviest bombardment yet on Haifa, targeting both the city and its surrounding suburbs, including Kiryat Yam and Kiryat Motzkin. The attack occurred midday, with more than 100 rockets fired within a brief window of time.
Iron Dome Interception
Most of the rockets were intercepted by Israel’s Iron Dome missile defense system, but several rockets managed to bypass the system, causing explosions in Haifa’s suburbs. Despite the extensive damage, civilian casualties remained low, with only one reported injury—a woman in her 70s who sustained moderate injuries from shrapnel.
Impact on Civilians
The residents of Haifa were forced to seek refuge in bomb shelters as sirens blared across the city. Multiple neighborhoods reported damage to homes, further emphasizing the destructive impact of Hezbollah’s aggressive strategy.
Hezbollah’s Military Claims
Deputy Leader’s Address
As the rockets rained down on Haifa, Hezbollah’s deputy leader, Naim Qassem, declared that the group’s military capabilities remained intact despite sustained Israeli strikes. In a video address, Qassem stated, “Our capabilities are fine, and our fighters are deployed along the frontlines.”
A Growing Conflict
Qassem claimed that Hezbollah had escalated its rocket and drone strikes on Israel, declaring that many Israeli settlements and cities were under the group’s “fire of resistance.” He further emphasized Hezbollah’s readiness for direct clashes with Israeli troops in Lebanon, with the group itching to expand the conflict.
IDF Response and Strikes
Retaliatory Strikes
Following the rocket attack, the IDF announced immediate strikes on Hezbollah positions in Beirut’s southern suburbs. While details were initially limited, the strikes aimed to target Hezbollah’s key military installations.
Hezbollah Leadership in Crisis
The attack came shortly after Israeli forces claimed significant victories in targeting Hezbollah leadership. Defense Minister Yoav Gallant confirmed the elimination of key Hezbollah figures, including the group’s leader Hassan Nasrallah, who was reportedly killed in an Israeli airstrike.
Hezbollah’s Leadership Vacuum
Leadership Woes
With Nasrallah’s death, Hezbollah faces an internal leadership vacuum. Qassem acknowledged the difficulties in replacing Nasrallah amidst the ongoing conflict, although he insisted that Hezbollah’s organizational structure remained functional and operational.
Succession Challenges
Gallant further hinted that Hashem Safieddine, the official designated to replace Nasrallah, had likely been killed in a subsequent airstrike in Beirut, leaving Hezbollah in disarray. Without clear leadership, the group’s decision-making process could be significantly hindered.
Conclusion
Hezbollah’s recent rocket attack on Haifa marks a dramatic escalation in the ongoing conflict with Israel. Despite weeks of intense IDF strikes and the loss of key leaders, Hezbollah insists that its military capabilities remain intact. The situation on the ground continues to evolve, with the potential for further escalation in the coming days. As Israel responds with additional airstrikes, the conflict shows no signs of de-escalation.