Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has pledged continued strikes against Hezbollah after the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) preemptively destroyed rocket launch sites in southern Lebanon, preventing a massive attack on central Israel. The operation, which targeted thousands of rockets just minutes before their planned launch, successfully averted what could have been a devastating assault.

Netanyahu addressed the nation, making it clear that this was only the beginning of Israel’s efforts to neutralize threats from the Iran-backed group. He noted that the IDF’s operation not only destroyed thousands of rockets aimed at Galilee but also intercepted drones intended to strike central Israel. He issued a stern warning to Hezbollah’s leader Hassan Nasrallah and Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, signaling that Israel’s military campaign will continue until the northern threat is eliminated.

The IDF’s operation involved approximately 100 Israeli Air Force fighter jets, which carried out precision strikes on Hezbollah rocket launchers hidden throughout southern Lebanon. The preemptive strike was based on intelligence that Hezbollah was planning to fire these rockets at 5 a.m., targeting key sites in Tel Aviv and other strategic areas. In addition, the IDF neutralized a terrorist cell in the Khiam region of southern Lebanon.

Hezbollah responded with a barrage of over 320 Katyusha rockets, targeting multiple Israeli military sites. The damage in Israel was minimal, but the exchange has kept tensions high. Both sides have stated that their operations were focused on military targets, with no further escalation anticipated at this time.

As the situation remains tense, international leaders, including U.S. President Joe Biden, are closely monitoring the developments. The focus is now on preventing further conflict, with ongoing negotiations in Cairo aimed at securing a ceasefire and stabilizing the region. The world watches as efforts continue to prevent the situation from spiraling into a broader conflict.