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Tensions Escalate as Israeli Cabinet Authorizes Retaliation for Deadly Golan Heights Attack

Monday 29 July 2024 - 17:15

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In a significant development that has heightened regional tensions, Israel's security cabinet has granted Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant the authority to determine the timing and nature of retaliation against Hezbollah. This decision follows a devastating rocket attack on the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights that claimed the lives of 12 Druze children and teenagers.

The attack, which occurred on Saturday evening, marks the deadliest cross-border incident in months of ongoing hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah. Despite the Lebanese Shia militant group's denial of responsibility, both Israel and the United States have attributed the attack to Hezbollah.

Netanyahu, who curtailed his visit to the United States following the strike, visited the attack site in the Druze town of Majdal Shams on Monday. Addressing the tragedy, he stated, "These children are our children. The state of Israel will not, and cannot, let this pass. Our response will come, and it will be severe." However, his visit was met with protests from local residents, who expressed anger towards authorities for failing to prevent the attack.

The international community has responded with calls for restraint. The White House reported ongoing discussions with Israeli and Lebanese counterparts, emphasizing efforts towards a diplomatic solution along the Blue Line to end all attacks.

Tensions further escalated on Monday when an Israeli drone strike outside the Lebanese town of Shaqra reportedly killed two Hezbollah fighters. This incident, coupled with the suspension of flights to Beirut by several major airlines, including Air France, Lufthansa, and Swiss International Air Lines, has heightened anticipations of imminent Israeli retaliation.

The attack has particularly devastated the Druze community, which has inhabited the Golan Heights for centuries. Thousands gathered for the funerals of the young victims on Sunday, with scenes of profound grief as white-draped caskets were carried through Majdal Shams.

Israeli military Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi identified the weapon used in the attack as an Iranian-made unguided surface-to-surface Falaq rocket with a 53kg warhead. He stated, "This is a Hezbollah rocket. And whoever launches such a rocket into a built-up area wants to kill civilians, wants to kill children."

As the region braces for potential escalation, the international community watches closely, hoping for a resolution that can prevent further loss of life and maintain regional stability.