New restrictions imposed on Haifa, areas north of it as Israel braces for Hezbollah response

IDF Spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari says the Home Front Command is issuing new restrictions on civilians from the Haifa area and northward, as fighting escalates in northern Israel.

He says educational activities and workplaces can operate only if an adequate shelter is nearby and can be reached in time.

There are also restrictions on gatherings in the same area: Up to 30 people outdoors and 300 people indoors.

The changes come as the IDF carries out widespread airstrikes against Hezbollah sites and rocket launchers in southern Lebanon this evening.

Hagari says that the strikes come after the military identified Hezbollah preparations to launch rockets at Israel.

He says that today, more than 400 Hezbollah rocket launchers have been struck.

Hagari says there may be additional changes to the Home Front Command guidelines depending on the developments, warning that rockets could be launched at Israel in the coming hours.

“If there are any further changes, overnight or tomorrow, we will update immediately. It is possible that in the immediate time frame, rockets and other threats may be launched at Israel. We ask of you to follow the Home Front Command guidelines,” he says.