From the Liveblog of
Monday, September 23, 2024
1,300 strikes on Hezbollah largely targeting cruise missiles, mid-range rockets — IDF
Emanuel (Mannie) Fabian is The Times of Israel's military correspondent
IDF Spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari says the Israeli Air Force has struck some 1,300 Hezbollah targets in Lebanon today, and is continuing to strike at this hour.
In a press conference, Hagari says the targets were largely weapons stored in homes, including “cruise missiles that can reach hundreds of kilometers, heavy rockets with a 1,000-kilogram warhead, medium-range rockets that reach a range of up to 200 kilometers, short-range rockets, and armed unmanned aerial vehicles.”
Regarding the high death toll reported in Lebanon, Hagari says “These numbers also refer to many terrorists we killed today who were near the weapons.” He says the IDF will provide its own figures at a later time.
He says that there are no changes to Home Front Command guidelines for civilians at this time, despite a “special order” signed by Defense Minister Yoav Gallant — which allows restrictions to be imposed — being expanded nationwide.
“Challenging days are ahead. We continue to be focused on defense and attack on all fronts,” Hagari says.
“Your correct and responsible conduct, and resilience, play a large part in denying the enemy achievements,” he adds, addressing the Israeli public.
