In an unusually scant statement, Hezbollah hinted at an all-out-declaration of war against “Israel”, moving on from what it previously said on several occasions was a “support front” in assistance of Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

Previously, Hezbollah opened all statements and military press releases with “In support of our steadfast Palestinian people in the Gaza, in support of their valiant and honorable resistance.”

In the latest statement, Hezbollah added “in defense of Lebanon and its people” highlighted in bold red in the middle of the statement published on their official Telegram channel.

“Israeli” airstrikes are continuing to pound areas across Lebanon, with Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi saying the attacks will mount and expand against Hezbollah to curb their military capabilities.

In the past hour, Hezbollah has also intensified its rocket barrages, with Hebrew media stating that over 105 rockets were launched at north “Israel”.

This also followed a “targeted strike” on the notorious Hezbollah stronghold Dahieh in Beirut, with reports saying it struck the head of Hezbollah Missile Unit.

He is identified as Ibrahim Qubaisi, with Lebanese sources telling Reuters that he was killed in the strike on an apartment building in Dahieh, Beirut.