Hezbollah launched a series of rocket attacks on Wednesday targeting northern Israeli cities, resulting in the tragic deaths of two civilians. This marked the first instance of civilian casualties in the region since Israel initiated its ground offensive in Lebanon earlier this month.
The Israeli police commander, Eli Silok, reported that a couple walking their dogs in Kiryat Shmona were caught in the rocket attack. The rockets fell dangerously close to the couple, causing fatal injuries to them and their pets. Additionally, another rocket damaged an ambulance in the vicinity, as confirmed by emergency responder Ziporra Barak from Israel's emergency services (MDA).
Following the rocket barrage, fires erupted in multiple buildings and open fields in the city, as reported by the Israel Fire and Rescue Services. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) stated that a total of ninety rockets were fired by Hezbollah into the Upper Galilee, Western Galilee, and southern Golan Heights. While some rockets were intercepted, others hit their targets causing damage.
In Safed, another Israeli city, interceptors successfully shot down incoming rockets, preventing any casualties. However, footage released by Safed Municipality showcased the aftermath of a rocket strike on a building, highlighting the destructive impact of the attacks.
Prior to these incidents, six individuals were injured in Haifa, the largest city in northern Israel, due to rocket strikes. Direct missile hits in the Upper Galilee also led to several fires in buildings and open areas.
It is important to note that Hezbollah's rocket attacks are escalating as Israel conducts what it describes as limited operations in southern Lebanon. The IDF shared videos showing targeted strikes on armed fighters and buildings in southern Lebanon throughout the day.