Deadly Attack on Soccer Field in Northern Israel Attributed to Hezbollah
Hezbollah Rocket Strike in Israel Causes Fatalities and Injuries
On Saturday, a Hezbollah rocket attack resulted in the deaths and injuries of at least 10 people, including children, in northern Israel, as reported by the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF). The incident occurred in the town of Majdal Shams, located near the Syrian border. Twelve individuals were killed, and approximately 29 others were injured, primarily between the ages of 10 and 20.
The attack, which targeted a soccer field in this predominantly Druze town, created widespread panic and marked the highest death toll in the area since Hezbollah’s involvement in the conflict with Hamas on October 7.
The IDF quickly attributed the attack to Hezbollah, stating, “Based on our assessment and available intelligence, the rocket strike on Majdal Shams was executed by Hezbollah. The organization is responsible for the attack on the soccer field, which resulted in numerous civilian casualties, including children.”
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who was in the U.S. during the attack, was updated on the situation and conducted assessments through a political source. His office issued a statement via TPS News Agency, indicating that Netanyahu had spoken with Sheikh Muafek Tarif, the spiritual leader of the Druze community. Netanyahu vowed that Israel would respond decisively to the attack, ensuring that Hezbollah faces serious consequences.
Sheikh Tarif condemned the attack as “cruel and murderous.” Netanyahu is expected to meet with his security cabinet upon his return to Israel.
Israel’s Minister of Defense, Yoav Gallant, and IDF Chief of Staff LTG Herzi Halevi were engaged in evaluating the attack. The IDF identified around 30 projectiles launched from Lebanon on the same day. Hezbollah, which is designated a terrorist organization by the U.S., controls Lebanon effectively.
On Israeli television, Foreign Minister Israel Katz suggested that Israel might be approaching a full-scale war with Hezbollah, pledging a strong response. Earlier, former national security adviser Yakkov Amidror had warned of the potential for a broader conflict.
In response to the attack, the Biden administration issued a statement condemning the assault and expressing support for Israel. Expert Jason Brodsky, commenting on the situation, noted that Hezbollah’s leader, Hassan Nasrallah, might have anticipated targeting new areas in Israel without provoking severe retaliation. He also suggested that the high number of civilian casualties might shift the conflict’s dynamics.
The Druze community has been present in northern Israel for over a millennium, with significant populations in Lebanon, Syria, and Jordan.
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