Tensions flared along the Israel-Lebanon border today as three rockets were launched from southern Lebanon toward Metula, a small town in northern Israel.

The Israeli military swiftly intercepted all three projectiles using the Iron Dome defense system, preventing any casualties or damage. In response, Israeli forces unleashed artillery strikes into southern Lebanon, targeting suspected launch sites in a bid to deter further aggression.

Israel has pointed the finger at Hezbollah, the Iran-backed Lebanese militant group, for orchestrating the attack. However, Hezbollah has not officially claimed responsibility, leaving the incident shrouded in uncertainty. The rockets mark the first violation of a fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah in months, raising fears of renewed hostilities after a period of relative calm. The truce, brokered late last year, had largely held despite occasional accusations of minor breaches from both sides.

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) condemned the attack, with officials stating that the Lebanese government bears responsibility for any aggression originating from its territory. Defense Minister Israel Katz warned, “The fate of Metula is tied to Beirut,” signaling a readiness to escalate if provocations persist.

The artillery response underscores Israel’s policy of swift retaliation to protect its northern communities, many of which have faced displacement and disruption since hostilities with Hezbollah intensified in late 2023.

As the region teeters on edge, this breach threatens to unravel the delicate ceasefire, with both sides braced for potential escalation. The international community watches closely, urging restraint to prevent a slide back into full-scale conflict.