Hezbollah Drone Footage of Israeli Sites Sparks Tensions with Threat of War

Hezbollah's release of a nine-minute drone video revealing sensitive Israeli military and civilian sites has led to heightened tensions with Israel, prompting threats of all-out war. The footage, showcasing locations in Haifa including military installations and the Haifa port, has escalated conflict following recent attacks, with both sides exchanging threats and missile strikes.

Hezbollah has released a nine-minute drone video showing sensitive Israeli military and civilian sites, increasing tensions between the militant group and Israel. The footage, disclosed on June 18, 2024, covers locations around Haifa, including military installations, the Haifa port, and the Rafael defense company’s factory. Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz issued a statement threatening an "all-out war" in response, emphasizing Hezbollah and Lebanon could face severe consequences.

The video, reportedly part of a series, follows months of escalating conflict since the October 7 Hamas attacks. Hezbollah has launched more than 5,000 rockets, missiles, and drones at northern Israel, which has retaliated with hundreds of strikes in Lebanon. The drone footage was captured by a small “Hudhud”-type drone, which Israeli defense systems tracked but did not intercept to avoid civilian harm.

The release coincided with U.S. special envoy Amos Hochstein's visit to Israel and Lebanon, aimed at de-escalating tensions. The IDF confirmed the incident, stating that it regularly prepares for such threats and alters its defensive strategies accordingly. Over 90,000 Lebanese and 60,000 Israelis have evacuated border areas amid growing hostilities.