Israeli airstrikes intensify conflict with Hezbollah: Here are 15 things to know

According to Lebanon's state-run National News Agency, Israel conducted at least 52 airstrikes in southern Lebanon between 9 p.m. and 10 p.m. local time.

The Israeli military continued its operations against Hezbollah on Thursday, announcing that it had struck approximately 100 rocket launchers in southern Lebanon.

In a statement, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reported that along with the launchers it targeted additional Hezbollah infrastructure, including about 1,000 barrels that were ready to be used for imminent rocket attacks on Israeli territory. Each launcher is equipped with multiple barrels capable of firing unguided rockets.

According to Lebanon's state-run National News Agency, Israel conducted at least 52 airstrikes in southern Lebanon between 9pm and 10pm local time.

Earlier on September 19, the Iranian-backed Hezbollah group claimed responsibility for at least 17 attacks on Israeli military sites in northern Israel.

In response to the escalating violence, the IDF has issued safety instructions for several communities in northern Israel, advising civilians to minimize movement, avoid gatherings, and remain close to shelters.

Israeli Airstrikes on Lebanon: Israel carried out a series of airstrikes on southern Lebanon, one of the most intense since the October 7 hostilities began with Hezbollah.

Rocket Launchers Destroyed: Over 100 rocket launchers primed for attacks on Israel, containing around 1,000 rocket barrels, were destroyed by the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF).

Hezbollah Targets: In addition to the rocket launchers, several Hezbollah buildings and a weapons depot were also hit in the strikes.

Nasrallah’s Vow for Revenge: Hezbollah’s leader Hassan Nasrallah, in his first public address since the escalation, promised retaliation for what he described as a "massacre" that killed 37 Hezbollah operatives.

Unprecedented Attacks: Nasrallah accused Israel of detonating communication devices across Lebanon, causing nearly 3,000 injuries, and vowed “tough retribution”.

Israel’s New Phase in the War: Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant announced a "new phase" in the conflict, expanding beyond Gaza to Lebanon.

Hezbollah’s Alliance with Hamas: Hezbollah, supported by Iran, has been a key ally of Hamas since the October 7 attack, which resulted in over 1,200 Israeli deaths.

Cross-Border Hostilities: Daily exchanges of fire between Israel and Hezbollah have led to mass evacuations on both sides of the Israel-Lebanon border.

Mass Evacuations: Tens of thousands of civilians have fled their homes near the Israel-Lebanon border due to the escalating violence.

Damage in Metula: A major Hezbollah rocket barrage caused tremendous damage in Metula, a town along Israel's northern border, although no casualties were reported.

Israel’s Mossad Involvement: While Israel has not confirmed, security sources suggest Mossad might have been behind the attacks that killed Hezbollah operatives through exploding communication devices.

US and International Calls for Restraint: US Secretary of State Antony Blinken urged restraint from both Israel and Hezbollah to avoid further escalation.

British Ceasefire Call: British Foreign Secretary David Lammy called for an immediate ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah after meeting with international counterparts in Paris.

Lebanon’s Condemnation: Lebanese Foreign Minister Abdallah Bou Habib condemned Israel’s airstrikes, warning they could lead to a broader regional conflict.

Flight Suspensions: Delta Air Lines, along with several other airlines, suspended flights to the region, including routes to Tel Aviv, Beirut, and Tehran, due to rising tensions.