Image credits: The Daily Guardian
Lebanon is on high alert as it prepares for possible Israeli retaliation following a recent strike on the Golan Heights. Last week, a deadly attack on Majdal Shams, reportedly carried out by Hezbollah, resulted in the deaths of 12 teenagers and children. Israel has vowed a harsh response, though Lebanon’s leaders have been informed by US officials that the capital, Beirut, is not expected to be a target.
Hezbollah has declared its intent to respond to any Israeli retaliation, regardless of whether it targets Beirut directly. Sources close to the party confirm that Hezbollah has rejected diplomatic efforts to dissuade them from responding. A member of the Lebanese parliament close to Hezbollah stated that all Lebanese territory is considered a “red line,” and any Israeli aggression will be met with resistance.
The current situation is further complicated by the ongoing war in Gaza, where Hezbollah’s support for Hamas has intensified regional tensions. Since the outbreak of hostilities, Hezbollah has launched attacks against Israeli targets in northern Israel and the Golan Heights. The group’s response to Israeli aggression has been unyielding, with officials indicating that they will continue to act in support of their allies.
In Lebanon, preparations are underway to handle potential escalation. Emergency drills and preparations, although part of a pre-existing national plan, have been intensified. Member of Parliament Abdelrahman Al Bizri emphasized that these drills are vital given the potential for severe conflict similar to the 2006 war, which devastated Lebanon’s infrastructure and caused widespread displacement.
In the southern Lebanese village of Rmeich, a field hospital has been set up to handle emergencies. The facility, established as a precaution since the conflict began, remains ready despite limited use so far.
Meanwhile, Israeli airstrikes have targeted Syrian army positions near the Golan Heights as part of ongoing tensions. These strikes, aimed at areas with Hezbollah personnel and Iranian equipment, underscore the complex geopolitical dynamics in the region.