The ongoing Middle East crisis saw a fresh escalation as Hezbollah fired rockets at an Israeli military base near Haifa on Sunday night, leading to casualties. The group claimed responsibility, stating that the attack was in retaliation for Israeli strikes on civilians and Gaza, where thousands, including children, have been killed since the Hamas attack on October 7.

Hezbollah’s statement confirmed the launch of "Fadi 1" missiles targeting the Carmel base south of Haifa. The group reiterated its stance of defending Lebanon, saying, “The Islamic Resistance will remain ready to defend Lebanon and its proud, oppressed people and will not hesitate to do its duty to deter the enemy from its arrogance and aggression.”

In response, the Israeli military reported that 15 projectiles were fired from Lebanon into the upper Galilee region, some of which were intercepted. Casualties were reported in both Haifa and Tiberias as a result of the rocket strikes. One person was injured in Tiberias, while eight others were evacuated to Rambam Health Care Campus in Haifa for medical treatment.

The Israeli military has been conducting intense operations against Lebanon since late September, escalating tensions with Hezbollah.

Meanwhile, the United States reaffirmed its support for Israel. US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin spoke with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, emphasizing the US’s commitment to Israel’s security and the need for a ceasefire in Gaza. Austin also reiterated that the US is ready to defend its personnel and assist Israel's self-defense, while warning against further escalation in the region, particularly from Iran and its allies.

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