Tensions flared on Israel’s northern frontier Friday after Five rockets were fired from Lebanon toward the border town of Metula, marking the first such cross-border attack since December. According to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), all three projectiles were successfully intercepted by the country’s air defense systems. No injuries or physical damage have been reported. Sirens were triggered twice in Metula during the incident, prompting residents to take shelter.
The IDF has launched an investigation into the rocket fire, but no group has claimed responsibility for the attack. Hezbollah, the Iran-backed militant group that has previously launched rockets from southern Lebanon, has remained silent so far. Also Read: Can Europe Lead NATO Without the U.S.? Talks Underway
The northern border had remained largely quiet since a ceasefire took effect on November 27, bringing temporary calm to the volatile region. Friday’s incident raises concerns about a potential escalation, as Israel continues to deal with security challenges on multiple fronts.
Meanwhile, international diplomatic pressure is mounting on Israel and Hamas to return to a ceasefire in Gaza. In a joint statement, the foreign ministers of Germany, France, and the United Kingdom urged an immediate halt to hostilities and the release of Israeli hostages still held by Hamas.
“The resumption of Israeli strikes in Gaza marks a dramatic step backward for the people of Gaza. We are appalled by the civilian casualties and urgently call for an immediate return to a ceasefire,” said the ministers — Germany’s Annalena Baerbock, France’s Jean-Noel Barrot, and the UK’s David Lammy.
They further emphasized that Hamas must no longer govern Gaza or pose a threat to Israel and called on Israel to ensure the flow of humanitarian aid into the besieged enclave while respecting international law.
Key Points:
Rocket Attack on Metula: Three rockets were fired from Lebanon toward the Israeli border town of Metula on Friday.
- First Attack Since December: This marks the first rocket fire from Lebanon since the ceasefire took effect on November 27.
- All Rockets Intercepted: The IDF reported that all three rockets were successfully intercepted by air defense systems; no injuries or damage were reported.
- Sirens Sounded Twice: Residents of Metula were alerted by sirens that sounded twice during the incident.
- No Claim of Responsibility: No group, including Hezbollah, has claimed responsibility for the rocket fire.
- Military Investigating: The IDF is currently investigating the source and intent behind the attack.
- International Ceasefire Appeal: Foreign ministers of Germany, France, and the UK jointly called for an immediate return to a ceasefire in Gaza.
- Criticism of Gaza Offensive: The European ministers expressed concern over resumed Israeli strikes and rising civilian casualties in Gaza.
- Demand for Hostage Release: The ministers urged Hamas to release all remaining Israeli hostages and stated that Hamas should not govern Gaza or threaten Israel.
- Call for Humanitarian Access: The allies also emphasized the need for Israel to respect international law and facilitate humanitarian aid into Gaza.
