Israeli fighter jets launched an extensive operation against Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon late Thursday, destroying hundreds of rocket launcher barrels that were prepared for immediate use against Israeli territory, the military said. According to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), approximately 100 rocket launchers, containing around 1,000 barrels, were hit during the strikes.

"The IDF will continue to take action to weaken Hezbollah's terrorist infrastructure and capabilities in order to defend the State of Israel," the military said in a statement.

The strikes followed a series of attacks earlier in the week, attributed by Lebanon and Hezbollah to Israel. These attacks reportedly destroyed Hezbollah's communication systems, including radios and pagers, resulting in the deaths of 37 people and injuries to approximately 3,000 in Lebanon.

During Thursday's operation, Israel dropped dozens of bombs across southern Lebanon. Lebanese security sources confirmed the strikes, although no immediate reports of casualties were available.

Israel's Defense Minister, Yoav Gallant, reiterated that the military would continue its operations against Hezbollah.

Internationally, British Foreign Secretary David Lammy called for an immediate ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, expressing concern over the growing escalation. The U.S. has also voiced fears about the conflict intensifying further.

Tensions in the region have been escalating since October 7, when Iran-backed Hezbollah began launching rockets into northern Israel in support of Hamas. This has forced many residents in Israel's northern areas to evacuate to central parts of the country. Daily exchanges of fire between Israel and Hezbollah have continued since then.

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