For the first time since 1973, Israel observed Yom Kippur the holiest day on the Jewish calendar while engaged in a multi-front war. The solemn Day of Atonement, which began on Friday evening, coincided with ongoing hostilities on multiple fronts, particularly rocket attacks from Gaza and airstrikes in Lebanon, marking a rare and tense religious observance.
Fighting on Multiple Fronts
As the sun set, rocket fire from Gaza and tensions along the northern border with Lebanon intensified. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reported over 120 rockets fired from Gaza into Israeli territory, even during the holy day. In response, Israel continued its strikes on Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon, escalating the conflict.
International Reactions and Concern
The IDF’s military operations in Gaza and Lebanon have drawn widespread international attention, especially regarding incidents involving the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL). On Friday, two Sri Lankan UN peacekeepers were injured in an Israeli strike, marking the second such incident in two days. Israeli forces claimed the strikes were in response to an immediate threat near the UNIFIL post, but the actions were met with international criticism. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the attack as a violation of international law, while US President Joe Biden and European leaders like French President Emmanuel Macron called for Israel to respect the integrity of UN missions.
India’s Concerns
India also voiced concern over the situation in West Asia, particularly along the UN-recognized Blue Line between Israel and Lebanon. In a statement, India’s Ministry of External Affairs expressed unease over the deteriorating security situation, emphasizing the need for careful monitoring.
The Hezbollah Threat
Amid the intensifying conflict, Hezbollah issued warnings to Israeli civilians to avoid military sites in northern Israel. Accusing the IDF of using civilian areas to shield military installations, Hezbollah has continued launching retaliatory rocket attacks in response to Israel’s operations in Gaza. These exchanges have resulted in significant devastation on both sides.
Diplomatic Efforts for a Ceasefire
Despite ongoing diplomatic efforts, including attempts by the United States to broker a ceasefire, fighting continues. Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati has called for an immediate halt to hostilities and urged the United Nations Security Council to intervene. Although Hezbollah has expressed willingness to allow the Lebanese army and UN forces to manage the border, active fighting remains, with Israeli airstrikes continuing to target Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon.
The conflict, reignited after Hamas’s surprise attack on Israel in October 2023, which resulted in over 1,200 Israeli deaths, shows little sign of abating, making the 2024 Yom Kippur observance a deeply somber and dangerous time for Israel.
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