rockets

Reuters: Israeli military to launch Rafah operation immediately, awaits approval

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Reuters: Israeli military to launch Rafah operation immediately, awaits approval

Israel is conducting an assault on Hamas in Rafah, the last Gaza Strip city not yet targeted by a ground offensive. The Israeli military is focusing its attacks on areas in the north of Gaza where they had previously withdrawn troops. Aid agencies have expressed concern over the potential humanitarian crisis in Rafah, where over 1 million people have been displaced. Israeli strikes in the past 24 hours have killed at least 79 Palestinians, with heavy shelling reported in northern Gaza and suburbs of Gaza City. Residents are questioning the reasons for the renewed violence, with one resident suggesting it may be due to aid finally reaching the area. The Israeli military has not provided immediate comment on the recent developments.

In any air war, Israel’s defences would trump Iran’s, but at a high cost

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In any air war, Israel’s defences would trump Iran’s, but at a high cost

Iran’s aging air defenses make the country vulnerable to an Israeli attack, despite its strong ballistic missiles and drones. Israel’s formidable defense systems have the capability to hit targets inside Iran due to its obsolete air force and aging Russian-based air defense systems. Israel’s main challenge would be successfully striking military bases in western and southern Iran, requiring the use of penetrating bombs. The cost of repelling Iran’s attack could be significantly higher than the cost of the attack itself. Israel is working to replenish its air defense systems in preparation for potential future attacks. Israel is unlikely to rely solely on defense and may respond with significant offensive options if attacked by Iran.

FACTBOX-Lebanon’s Hezbollah: What weapons does it have?

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FACTBOX-Lebanon’s Hezbollah: What weapons does it have?

Hezbollah, a heavily armed non-state group in Lebanon, is a key player in the Iran-backed “Axis of Resistance” alliance against Israel and U.S. influence in the Middle East. Hezbollah possesses a vast arsenal of over 150,000 missiles and rockets, including precision weapons, anti-tank, anti-aircraft, and anti-ship missiles. The group also has around 45,000 fighters and has used drones in hostilities with Israel.