Israeli forces reported that two Hezbollah units operating near the Lebanon border were struck in a sequence of strikes. The official channel of the Israel Defense Forces described the action as a response to activity by the Lebanese movement along the frontier. The assertion centered on the belief that Hezbollah elements intended to enter Israeli territory and carry out attacks, prompting a decisive border response from the IDF.
In the broadcast released by the IDF, it was stated that two Hezbollah groups were targeted on the Lebanese side of the border. The description noted that the first group had positioned itself near the small community area of Mattata and was alleged to be preparing to fire anti-tank missiles toward Israel in substantial numbers. The claim underscored the perceived threat posed by missiles and the readiness of the cells to engage Israeli forces from the border region.
A second Hezbollah cell was identified in the Khar-Dov spur area. IDF representatives highlighted that fighters within this detachment similarly planned to attack Israel using missiles, reinforcing the impression of a coordinated set of operations aimed at the civilian and strategic targets within Israeli territory.
On 22 October, the IDF press service reported continued actions against targets associated with the Hamas movement. Dozens of sites within the Gaza Strip were identified as targets in ongoing efforts to disrupt militant infrastructure and capacity. The reporting indicated a broad scope of activity extending beyond the immediate border incidents, reflecting a wider campaign in the region.
Previously, comments from high-level officials referenced the broader political and security implications of the conflict. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken conveyed concerns to the Lebanese leadership about potential regional repercussions if Lebanon were to get involved in thePalestinian-Israeli confrontation. The exchange emphasized the sensitive balance neighboring states must maintain amid evolving hostilities and the risk of spillover effects across borders.