Israel Declares 48-Hour Emergency Amid Hezbollah Airstrikes

Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant has declared a 48-hour nationwide state of emergency following a series of attacks by Hezbollah. The emergency status, effective from 6:00 a.m. (Israeli time), allows the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) to implement essential directives such as restrictions on public gatherings and the closure of vulnerable sites. This decision comes amid escalating hostilities, with Hezbollah claiming responsibility for firing over 320 rockets and several explosive-laden drones at northern Israel and targeting 11 military bases in the region.

In response, the IDF has engaged in preemptive strikes against Hezbollah targets in Lebanon. The heightened tensions are partly attributed to the killing of Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr last month, which has led to promises of retaliation. The emergency measures enable the IDF to issue safety instructions to civilians, particularly in areas where the risk of attacks is considered high. As both sides continue to exchange fire, the situation remains volatile, with the Israeli public on high alert.