why is israel attacking lebanon

Israel's attacks on Lebanon, primarily targeting Hezbollah, are part of an ongoing conflict linked with the broader Israel-Gaza war. Israel claims these strikes are preemptive and aimed to destroy Hezbollah's military capabilities, which it views as a direct threat, to allow Israeli residents near the Lebanese border to return safely. This escalation began after Hezbollah increased attacks on Israel's northern border following Israel's war in Gaza starting in October 2023. Hezbollah retaliates to support Gaza and in response to Israeli actions including the assassination of Hezbollah commanders and breaches of ceasefire accords. Since then, both sides have exchanged military strikes, with Israel targeting what it calls Hezbollah military sites throughout southern Lebanon and other areas where Hezbollah operates. The fighting has resulted in significant Lebanese civilian casualties and displacement, marking the most intense conflict in Lebanon since its civil war and the 2006 war with Israel. Israel has asserted that its operations are necessary to prevent Hezbollah from attacking and to weaken its armed presence north of Israel, with discussions about potential ground incursions ongoing. Hezbollah maintains that it responds to Israeli aggression and vows to continue its resistance until Israel stops its war in Gaza. The conflict risks broader regional escalation given Hezbollah's alliances with Iranian and other regional groups.