Hezbollah released a nine-minute video on June 18, 2024, showing drone footage of sensitive Israeli military and civilian sites, including the Haifa port, Iron Dome batteries, missile storage areas, and radar installations. The footage was taken over several hours or days, and the drone infiltrated at least 27 kilometers into Israel without being intercepted.
Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz responded with strong threats on social media, suggesting a possible all-out war against Hezbollah and Lebanon if such provocations continue. He asserted that in such a conflict, Hezbollah would be destroyed, and Lebanon would face severe repercussions.
The video, which Hezbollah stated is the first in a series, was released amid rising cross-border tensions following the October 7 Hamas attacks and subsequent Israeli strikes. Hezbollah has fired more than 5,000 rockets, missiles, and drones at northern Israel since October, claiming solidarity with the Palestinians.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) acknowledged tracking the drone but chose not to intercept it to avoid endangering civilians with potential shrapnel. Following the video's release, the IDF confirmed its operational plans for potential offensives in Lebanon to be prepared for any escalation.
Approximately 90,000 Lebanese and 60,000 Israelis have fled their homes near the border due to ongoing hostilities. The video release coincided with US special envoy Amos Hochstein's visit to mediate between Israel and Lebanon.