Rocket Barrage and Counterstrikes: Israel-Lebanon Clash Escalates

On Sunday, Hezbollah launched rockets and drones at Israel, prompting massive airstrikes from Israeli jets. Both sides faced casualties and warned of possible further strikes. The conflict risks broader regional escalation. U.S. military presence increased, and ceasefire talks continue amid ongoing violence in Gaza and Lebanon.

Hezbollah launched a significant attack against Israel early Sunday, deploying hundreds of rockets and drones. In response, Israel's military used around 100 jets to conduct airstrikes in Lebanon. One of the biggest clashes in over 10 months, the conflict included visible missile trails and explosions, with smoke rising over southern Lebanese towns.

Siren alarms sounded in central Israel, as the Israeli Defense Forces reported a projectile crossing from the southern Gaza Strip. Hamas's armed wing claimed responsibility for firing an "M90" rocket at Tel Aviv. Both Hezbollah and Israel expressed a desire to halt further escalation but indicated readiness for additional attacks if provoked.

The U.S. increased its military presence in the Middle East, with Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin ordering two aircraft carrier strike groups to the region and top U.S. General C.Q. Brown holding talks with Israeli military leaders. Meanwhile, ceasefire negotiations in Cairo failed to produce an agreement, with both Hamas and Israel rejecting mediator proposals. Hostilities remain high as rockets and airstrikes continue.

(With inputs from agencies.)