DeKalb GA News

Israel announced late Saturday night (US EDT) that it had launched preemptive airstrikes against Hezbollah targets in Lebanon to thwart a massive rocket, missile, and drone attack.

The Israeli government posted announcements in English, stating, “In a self-defense act to remove these threats, the IDF is striking terror targets in Lebanon, from which Hezbollah was planning to launch their attacks on Israeli civilians.”

IDF Spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari provided an update regarding Hezbollah’s plans to attack. He said, “A short time ago, we detected Hezbollah’s preparations to launch missiles and rockets at the State of Israel. Following this, we attack proactively to remove the threat to the citizens of the State of Israel. Air Force planes are now attacking terrorist targets in Lebanon from which we detect that Hezbollah is preparing to launch threats to our territory."

He added, "In the near future, Hezbollah will launch rockets, and possibly missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles towards the territory of the State of Israel. Accordingly, ‘life-saving’ instructions of the Home Front Command will be distributed in various regions. We warn Lebanese citizens who are in South Lebanon – we recognize that Hezbollah is now preparing to shoot widely into Israeli territory near your home. You are in danger. We attack and remove Hezbollah threats. Anyone who is near areas where Hezbollah operates is required to stay away from them immediately to protect himself and his family."

Hagari concluded by stating that "the IDF is doing and will do everything necessary to protect the citizens of the State of Israel."

Reports indicate unverified videos and photos circulating online showing fire belts along southern Lebanon.

Fox News Pentagon producer Liz Friden noted U.S. Navy assets' presence in the Middle East with an update on August 22 about USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group being positioned there.

Aviso reporter Barak Ravid reported that a senior Israeli official confirmed Israel informed the U.S. in advance of its preemptive strike in Lebanon.

An overnight statement by the IDF revealed that approximately 100 IAF fighter jets struck and eliminated thousands of Hezbollah rocket launcher barrels aimed for immediate fire toward northern and central Israel. More than 40 Hezbollah launch areas were struck.

Times of Israel reporter Emanuel Fabian reported that according to the IDF, around 210 rockets and some 20 drones were launched from Lebanon at northern Israel during Hezbollah's attack on Sunday morning. Some targets were intercepted while others caused damage and injuries upon impact.

Videos have emerged showing Iron Dome defenses engaging with incoming rockets from Lebanon as well as footage capturing a Hezbollah drone being shot down over northern Israel.