Israel attacks Iran and Hezbollah in Lebanon, imposes state of emergency

Israel launched preemptive strikes on Iran and hit Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon on the morning of 28 February. A state of emergency has been declared across the country, with strict measures imposed on the civilian population.

Source: Times of Israel; Israel Defence Forces (IDF)

Details: Defence Minister Israel Katz said Israel "launched a preemptive strike against Iran to remove threats to the State of Israel" and declared an "immediate state of emergency throughout the entire country".

Educational activities, mass gatherings and work outside essential sectors are prohibited from Saturday onwards, for an indefinite period.

According to Israeli authorities, the country's airspace is closed to civilian flights. The Ministry of Transport has urged citizens not to go to airports, promising 24 hours' notice before flights resume.

Meanwhile, the IDF reported strikes on Hezbollah infrastructure in southern Lebanon in response to repeated violations of ceasefire agreements. Launch positions and underground tunnels reportedly used to plan attacks on Israel were targeted.

The IDF also stated that Hezbollah had recently used these facilities to restore its activities, which Israel considers a breach of agreements with Lebanon and a threat to the country.

As the operation began, air-raid warnings were issued across Israel. The Home Front Command sent alerts to mobile phones, advising people to stay near protected shelters.

Background:

• Indirect US-Iran talks in Geneva on 26 February ended without any agreements.
• In recent days, there have been growing signs that figures in US President Donald Trump's administration are close to a decision on a military operation against Iran, in which Israel would likely also take part.
• On 27 February, the US Department of State announced the evacuation of non-essential staff from its embassy in Israel due to security risks. Several countries have also urged their citizens to refrain from travelling to Israel.

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