The Israeli military said on Wednesday that eight soldiers were killed in southern Lebanon. It was the highest loss of life for Israeli forces during a year of fighting along the border.
Israeli officers say regular infantry and armored units have crossed over into the country. Reuters reported the troops directly engaged Hezbollah fighters for the first time. The Israeli army announced those who died were between 21 and 23 years old.
One day after Iranian forces fired a barrage of missiles at Israel on Tuesday, Israel said several air force bases were hit. However, they added that the strikes were “not effective” and did not damage planes, weapons or significant infrastructure.
Israel Defense Forces Chief of the General Staff, Lieutenant General Herzi Halevi said his country will respond: “We have the capabilities to reach and strike any point in the Middle East. And those of our enemies who have not yet understood this will soon understand.”
Iran said it launched the attack to retaliate for the assassinations of the leaders of Hezbollah and Hamas.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian discussed the situation in Gaza and Lebanon with the leader of Qatar.
On Wednesday in Lusail, Qatar, he said: “We were left with no choice but to respond. If Israel decides to retaliate, then it will face harsher reactions.”
He added, however, that Iranians “do not want war or bloodshed,” only peace.