The United States has issued a security alert for its citizens residing in Israel amid escalating violence in the region. The alert follows continued Israeli airstrikes on Gaza, which have resulted in significant civilian casualties, including women and children. Meanwhile, Hamas has responded with rocket attacks on Tel Aviv, and additional rocket strikes have been reported from Lebanon.
According to Al Jazeera, the U.S. Embassy in Israel has urged American citizens to remain vigilant, avoid large gatherings, and be aware of the locations of the nearest shelters due to the “current security situation.”
Recent missile launches from Yemen by Houthi rebels have also triggered multiple rocket sirens and red alerts in Israel. Additionally, Hamas launched a series of rocket attacks on Tel Aviv last Thursday in retaliation for Israel’s intensified ground and air assaults on Gaza.
In response, the Israeli military reported that it intercepted some projectiles while others landed in unpopulated areas. No casualties were reported in these incidents. However, Lebanon also launched rocket attacks on Israel for the first time since the November ceasefire agreement, leading to Israel’s most intense airstrikes on Lebanon in four months.
The Israeli military confirmed that its forces targeted Hezbollah-controlled rocket launchers and a command center in southern Lebanon. The escalation follows Israel’s renewed offensive in Gaza against Hamas, which has led to increased hostilities across the region.
As tensions rise, the U.S. government has urged its citizens in Israel to take necessary precautions and remain updated on the evolving security situation.