Israeli airstrikes targeting Hezbollah in Lebanon resulted in 492 fatalities on Monday, marking the deadliest day of cross-border conflict since 2006. In retaliation, Hezbollah fired nearly 200 rockets into northern Israel, activating air raid sirens in cities like Haifa, Afula, and Nazareth. This escalation has raised concerns of a broader regional war, especially following the outbreak of violence in Gaza since October 7 last year.

Thousands of people fled southern Lebanon towards Beirut as the Israeli military conducted its most intensive operation against Hezbollah in nearly a year, striking around 1,600 targets. The Lebanese health ministry reported the high death toll, which included many women and children, as the conflict saw its most significant casualties since the end of the civil war in 1990.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the military’s actions were intended to shift the “security balance” along Israel’s northern border. The IDF chief of staff indicated preparations for further military operations in Lebanon.

In response to the conflict, U.S. President Joe Biden emphasized efforts to de-escalate tensions, while the Pentagon announced the deployment of additional troops to the Middle East. Israel warned civilians in Beirut to evacuate areas near Hezbollah military sites, following explosions linked to Hezbollah communication devices.

Countries including France and Egypt have called for international intervention, with France requesting a UN Security Council meeting. The situation has led to EgyptAir suspending flights to and from Beirut, and Jordan has also halted flights until stability returns.