ALBAWABA- Iranian ballistic missiles struck northern Israel on Tuesday, hitting the city of Safed and reportedly targeting Haifa and Tel Aviv, in a sharp escalation of the widening regional conflict.
Israeli authorities said the attacks caused casualties and damage to residential areas and infrastructure, though exact figures were not immediately released. Air defence systems intercepted several incoming missiles, but others penetrated and struck populated areas.
Iranian state media described the strikes as retaliation for ongoing Israeli operations in Lebanon and attacks inside Iran.
Simultaneously, Hezbollah launched a large missile barrage from southern Lebanon toward northern Israeli communities, saying the attack was in response to intensified Israeli airstrikes and ground incursions. Israeli forces have recently destroyed key infrastructure, including bridges over the Litani River, and targeted villages near the border.
Lebanese health officials reported casualties from the cross-border fighting, while Israel said several of its soldiers were lightly wounded.
Meanwhile, in a significant diplomatic development, the Lebanese government announced the expulsion of the Iranian ambassador and several diplomats, citing “security concerns” and the need to prevent further escalation on Lebanese territory. The move reflects mounting pressure on Beirut to contain spillover from the broader Iran-Israel confrontation.
Notably, Israeli defence officials called for the permanent occupation of areas south of the Litani River, arguing that full military control is necessary to secure northern Israel against Hezbollah.
The escalation comes as the US-Israeli war on Iran enters its fourth week, with sustained military exchanges across multiple fronts. Mediation efforts led by Turkey, Pakistan, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia are ongoing, with preliminary talks expected in Islamabad.
