Israel hits Hezbollah arms sites, continues strikes on Gaza amid escalating conflict

Israel conducted airstrikes on Hezbollah arms facilities in Beirut and Hamas targets in Gaza on Saturday, following a drone launch aimed at Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s residence. The drone attack, which did not result in injuries, has intensified hostilities between Israel and Iran-backed groups in the region.

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In Gaza, Israel’s ongoing military operation has resulted in the deaths of more than 400 people in northern areas over the past two weeks, according to Gaza’s civil defense agency. The Israeli military ramped up its strikes in response to the death of senior Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, whose killing on Wednesday has further escalated tensions.

As part of its psychological warfare campaign, Israeli planes dropped leaflets over southern Gaza on Saturday, featuring an image of Sinwar with the message: "Hamas will no longer rule Gaza," signaling Israel’s determination to dismantle the militant group.

Israel and Hezbollah have been exchanging fire across the Lebanese border since the conflict in Gaza reignited following a deadly Hamas attack on Israeli towns on October 7 last year. The ongoing violence has also led to further casualties, with Israeli strikes on Beit Lahiya in northern Gaza on Saturday claiming at least 73 lives.

The situation in the region continues to evolve, with rising casualties on both sides amidst intensifying military action.