Live Updates: Israel Pledges Response to Iran as Hezbollah Clashes with Israeli Troops in Lebanon

 1 Oct 2024

Hezbollah claims it successfully repelled Israeli troops near Odaisseh in southern Lebanon, forcing them to retreat after inflicting losses. Meanwhile, Israel has intensified its bombardment of Gaza, killing dozens in attacks on shelters, schools, and an orphanage. Israeli officials vowed retaliation after Iran launched ballistic missile strikes targeting key military and security sites in Israel, citing Israeli attacks on Gaza and Lebanon as provocation.

In Gaza, the death toll from Israeli strikes has reached 41,689, with 96,625 wounded since October. Israel has also suffered significant losses, with 1,139 killed in the Hamas-led attack on October 7, and over 200 people still held captive.

Elsewhere, Hezbollah reported detonating an explosive that killed and wounded Israeli soldiers near Yaroun in southern Lebanon. Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian warned of harsher consequences for Israel's "crimes" if they continue, as he left for a diplomatic visit to Qatar. Meanwhile, Germany summoned Iran's ambassador to condemn Tehran's missile attacks on Israel.

Countries like Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Spain, and others are ramping up efforts to evacuate their citizens from Lebanon amidst the escalating conflict. The U.S. has also positioned troops in Cyprus for potential evacuations. Amid these developments, Iran's military leadership threatened further, more intense attacks if Israel retaliates, while Western nations, including Australia, Belgium, and Germany, are preparing evacuation plans for their nationals in Lebanon.