Lebanon-based armed group Hezbollah has announced its entry into the ongoing regional conflict, launching missiles and drones toward Israel in what it described as retaliation for the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

According to Arab media reports, Hezbollah said it targeted Israeli missile defense systems in the northern city of Haifa. The group declared that the attack was carried out in response to the strike on Iran’s leadership and ongoing Israeli operations.

Hezbollah Declares ‘Right to Respond’ Amid Escalation

In an official statement, Hezbollah said continued Israeli attacks and the killing of its leaders and supporters had granted it the right to respond “at the appropriate time and place.” The group also called on Israel to withdraw from what it described as occupied Lebanese territories.

The missile and drone launches mark Hezbollah’s first direct strikes since the United States and Israel began military operations against Iran.

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Israeli Military Claims Interception, Launches Airstrikes on Beirut

The Israel Defense Forces said it intercepted Hezbollah’s projectiles and neutralized incoming threats. Israeli authorities confirmed that airstrikes were conducted on Hezbollah positions in Beirut following the attack.

Witnesses in Beirut reported loud explosions and plumes of smoke rising over targeted areas as Israeli jets carried out retaliatory operations.

Regional Tensions Reach New High

The Hezbollah missile attack on Israel adds a new front to the escalating Iran-Israel conflict, raising concerns about a broader Middle East war. Security analysts warn that expanding hostilities between Israel, Iran, and Hezbollah could destabilize Lebanon and impact regional security.

With missile exchanges and airstrikes intensifying, global leaders are urging restraint to prevent further escalation.