A rocket attack on a soccer field in the Israeli-controlled Golan Heights resulted in the tragic deaths of at least 10 individuals and left several others wounded, including children. This incident occurred shortly after an Israeli airstrike in south Lebanon claimed the lives of three members of the militant Hezbollah group.
The strike, deemed the deadliest attack on an Israeli target since the conflict between the two parties began in October, has sparked concerns of a potential escalation in the region's hostilities.
Hezbollah has stated that it targeted a military base in the Golan Heights in response to Israeli assaults on a village in Lebanon. However, the group has denied carrying out an attack on Majdal Shams.
According to Israeli military intelligence, the rocket launch towards Majdal Shams was attributed to the Hezbollah terrorist organization. The attack on the soccer field resulted in multiple civilian casualties, including children, as confirmed by the Israeli military.
Initial reports indicated that 11 individuals were wounded, with nine in critical condition, all aged between 10 and 20. Footage aired by Israeli media showed the injured being swiftly transported to ambulances from the soccer field in Majdal Shams.
Israeli officials have condemned the attack, with local council head Beni Ben Muvchar emphasizing the severity of targeting children at a sports event. He called for decisive action against top Hezbollah commanders in response.
Hezbollah claimed responsibility for firing Katyusha rockets at an Israeli army post in the Golan Heights, citing Israeli airstrikes on Lebanese villages as provocation. The group reported the deaths of three of its members on the same day, allegedly due to Israeli airstrikes on a Hezbollah arms depot in Kfar Kila.
The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah has escalated in recent weeks, with frequent exchanges of fire along the Lebanon-Israel border. Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon have resulted in numerous casualties, including Hezbollah militants and civilians, while Israel has also suffered losses in terms of military personnel and civilians.
The situation remains tense as both sides continue to engage in hostilities, raising concerns about further violence and instability in the region.