braking news Israel intercepts Hezbollah ballistic missile

The document describes a significant escalation in the conflict between Israel and the militant group Hezbollah, backed by Iran. On Wednesday, Israel's air defenses intercepted a ballistic missile fired by Hezbollah, the first time such a missile reached close to Tel Aviv. The missile was targeting the headquarters of Israel's intelligence service, Mossad, in retaliation for attacks on Hezbollah members. The Israeli Air Force responded by striking the launcher in southern Lebanon.

Hezbollah claimed the missile launch was in support of the Palestinian people in Gaza and in defense of Lebanon. The exchange of fire continued with Israel carrying out extensive strikes on Hezbollah targets in southern and eastern Lebanon, hitting over 100 targets. Hezbollah retaliated with rocket fire into Israel, causing damage but no injuries. Since the conflict with Hamas began, Hezbollah has fired hundreds of rockets and drones, prompting the evacuation of 60,000 people from Israel's northern region.

The document also details the humanitarian crisis in Lebanon, with thousands fleeing their homes due to airstrikes and rocket attacks. The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) reported numerous children missing under debris and stranded on dangerous roads. The health minister of Lebanon reported that at least 558 people were killed by Israeli airstrikes on Monday, including 50 children and 94 women. Hospitals are overwhelmed, and the healthcare system is struggling to cope with the influx of wounded. An estimated half a million people have been displaced, with many spending hours on congested roads to escape the conflict.

Israel has stated that the fighting will continue until it is safe for evacuees to return home and has not ruled out ground combat in Lebanon. The Israeli military has also advised displaced residents of southern Lebanon not to return, as it intensifies its offensive operations against Hezbollah.