In a devastating attack, an Iranian-made rocket struck a soccer field in the Druze town of Majdal Shams in the northern Golan Heights on Saturday, killing 12 people, mostly children and teens, and injuring dozens more. The rocket hit during a game, leaving residents and first responders to witness scenes of bloody carnage. Despite sirens sounding out their usual warnings, the alert was too brief for many to find and run to safety. Israeli officials have unequivocally blamed Hezbollah for the attack. At first Hezbollah took responsibility, but then later denied it. The rocket was Iranian-made.
Israeli Defense Forces Spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari confirmed that the victims were aged 10 to 20, and hospitals nearby treated numerous injured, including four in critical condition. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, cut his U.S. visit short and vowed a significant response, calling the attack an act of brutality. Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, after a security assessment with top military and intelligence officials, outlined possible retaliatory actions against Hezbollah.
This attack marks the deadliest Hezbollah assault on northern Israel since hostilities began in October, raising fears of further escalation. The Israeli government signaled an aggressive response, with Netanyahu set to convene the political-security cabinet upon his return.
