Lebanese PM Warns of Security Risks Amid Hezbollah Rocket Attacks on Israel

Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam has raised alarms over recent rocket attacks from Hezbollah towards Israel, emphasizing the risks posed to national security. This escalation follows the assassination of Iran's Supreme Leader, prompting Hezbollah's retaliation. Salam's statements highlight the need for stability in Lebanon, as Israel responds with airstrikes against militant targets. The situation marks a significant shift in the fragile ceasefire established in late 2024, raising concerns about further conflict in the region. As tensions rise, Salam vows to protect Lebanese citizens and prevent the country from being drawn into new conflicts.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 2, 2026, 09:57 IST

Lebanon's Prime Minister Addresses Rocket Attacks

Beirut: On Monday, Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam expressed serious concerns regarding the rocket launches from southern Lebanon, stating that such actions jeopardize the safety of citizens and provide Israel with justification for its military responses.

This statement follows a series of rocket attacks by the militant group Hezbollah targeting Israel, which they initiated in response to the assassination of Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Notably, this marks Hezbollah's first offensive against Israel since the ceasefire agreement was established in November 2024.

In a message posted on X, Salam refrained from directly naming Hezbollah but remarked, "No matter which group is responsible, the act of launching rockets from southern Lebanon is reckless and suspicious, threatening Lebanon's security and offering Israel reasons to escalate its attacks."

"We will not permit the nation to be drawn into further conflicts, and we will implement all necessary actions to apprehend those responsible and safeguard the Lebanese people," he asserted.

In retaliation for the rocket fire, Israel conducted airstrikes targeting areas controlled by Hezbollah in Lebanon. The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) confirmed that they had initiated strikes against militant positions throughout Lebanon, holding Hezbollah accountable for the provocations.

According to military reports, one rocket was successfully intercepted by air defense systems, while others landed in uninhabited regions. The launches activated air raid sirens across northern Israel.

Israel's Magen David Adom emergency service reported no immediate casualties from the airstrikes, although several individuals suffered minor injuries while seeking shelter.

Since the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah took effect in November 2024, incidents of fire from Lebanon have been infrequent. Nevertheless, Israel has continued to conduct regular airstrikes in southern and eastern Lebanon, asserting that these operations are necessary to counter perceived threats.

The recent rocket fire followed a formal tribute from Hezbollah on Sunday, during which the group's leader, Naim Qassem, condemned the Israeli assassination of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, labeling it as "the pinnacle of crime."