Druze Israeli Killed in Hezbollah Rocket Barrage

A 25-year-old Israeli was killed in Kiryat Shmona by Hezbollah’s rocket barrage, allegedly in retaliation for an Israeli airstrike in Lebanon that killed seven people. Israel’s army says those seven people were part of a terror cell. The victim, Zahar Bashara was part of Israel’s Druze community.

Hezbollah claimed responsibility for launching dozens of rockets at Kiryat Shmona and a nearby army base. Despite the Iron Dome intercepting some rockets, at least three struck the city, causing casualties and damage. A carpentry shop was heavily hit.

Bashara, was pulled from the rubble without vital signs. The IDF stated they targeted a “significant terrorist” in Lebanon, accusing them of planning attacks against Israel. The exchange of fire follows a series of escalations between Israel and Hezbollah, with both sides engaging in airstrikes and rocket attacks.

Tensions have intensified with the discovery of a crashed Hezbollah drone near the northern border community of Rosh Hanikra.