****

In a significant escalation of the ongoing conflict, five Israeli soldiers were killed in southern Lebanon. According to Israel's public broadcaster Kan, the attack occurred when a rocket struck the building they were occupying. This development underscores the intensifying clashes between Israeli forces and Hezbollah militants.

The incident reportedly took place overnight, resulting in the deaths of five army reservists and injuries to 24 other soldiers. This represents one of the most substantial single-attack casualties for the Israeli military since it initiated a ground invasion of southern Lebanon earlier this month.

Hezbollah, the militant group based in Lebanon and backed by Iran, claimed responsibility for two rocket attacks targeting Israeli troops near Markaba in southern Lebanon. However, it remains unclear if this was the precise location of the deadly strike on the Israeli soldiers.

Despite numerous Israeli airstrikes that have significantly impacted Hezbollah's leadership, the militant group remains a formidable opponent. Analysts note that Hezbollah continues to maintain its operational capabilities and has demonstrated adaptability against Israeli military strategies.

The conflict has escalated since Israel killed the leader of Hamas, prompting Hezbollah to ramp up its retaliatory strikes. Notably, Hezbollah orchestrated a drone attack that damaged a property belonging to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. In response, Israel has intensified its bombardment of southern Beirut, specifically targeting the densely populated neighborhoods where Hezbollah exerts considerable influence.

On Friday, the Israeli military confirmed that over the past day, its air force had targeted more than 200 locations in Lebanon, resulting in the death of a commander from Hezbollah's elite Radwan unit. Additionally, Israeli forces continue efforts to dismantle Hezbollah's network of underground compounds along the northern border.

This escalating military campaign has exacerbated a humanitarian crisis in Lebanon. According to U.N. agencies, approximately 1.4 million people, more than 20% of the population, have been displaced by the ongoing conflict.

Johnatan Reiss contributed additional reporting from the region.