Israeli military forces have intensified air strikes on Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon, claiming these actions were preemptive in response to an anticipated missile barrage from the Iranian-backed group. Hezbollah retaliated with a significant missile attack, launching over 320 rockets at Israeli military bases and claiming to facilitate drone operations against deeper targets within Israel. The exchanges of fire mark a serious escalation in hostilities, coinciding with ongoing high-level ceasefire negotiations in Egypt regarding the conflict in Gaza. Israeli officials reported killing at least three individuals in Lebanon during their strikes, while Hezbollah's attacks were described as a response to the assassination of one of its commanders. Both sides have stated their operations were aimed at military targets, but the situation remains volatile, with potential implications for broader regional stability. Despite the immediate exchanges, Hezbollah has indicated a willingness to halt fighting contingent on a ceasefire in Gaza.