Tensions Rise: Israeli Drone Strike in Lebanon Amid Hezbollah Accusations

An Israeli drone strike killed two and injured three in southern Lebanon following a rocket attack that killed 12 in Israel. The attack has heightened concerns of a serious escalation between Israel and Hezbollah. The U.S. calls for restraint as Lebanon braces for possible Israeli retaliation.

An Israeli drone strike killed two people and wounded three more in southern Lebanon on Monday, according to the Lebanese civil defence, in response to a weekend rocket attack that killed 12 teenagers and children. Late on Sunday, Israel's security cabinet gave Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government authority to decide on the timing and nature of the response.

Israel and the United States have blamed Hezbollah for Saturday's rocket strike, although the Iran-backed group has denied involvement. The incident, which saw a missile hit a sports field in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights, risks escalating the fragile standoff and has prompted international calls for restraint.

While Israel has not indicated specific actions, Yedioth Ahronoth newspaper reported that officials are considering various responses, ranging from targeted infrastructure attacks to strikes on Hezbollah weapons depots or high-level commanders.

Monday's drone strike also injured three people, including an infant, according to the Lebanese civil defence. The Israeli military reported downing a drone over Western Galilee, which had crossed from Lebanon.

Flights at Beirut's international airport have faced delays and cancellations due to the potential for Israeli retaliation. Both sides have sought to avoid a full-scale war following clashes that began in October and were sparked by the Gaza conflict.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken reiterated the U.S.'s support for Israel while urging all parties to avoid escalation. He highlighted Israel's right to self-defense but stressed the desire to prevent the conflict from spreading.

Hezbollah has rejected responsibility for the rocket that killed the teenagers but confirmed firing a missile at a military target in the Golan Heights, an area annexed by Israel after the 1967 Middle East war.