Operation Arbaeen: Hezbollah’s strategic strike on Israeli bases

Hezbollah has executed a significant operation against Israeli military positions, including the Glilot base and Ein Shemer airbase, according to European security sources.

Speaking to Lebanese media they claim that the attack, named Operation Arbaeen, has resulted in considerable casualties within the Israeli intelligence unit, with reports indicating that 22 personnel were killed and 74 injured, per Caliber.Az.

The offensive was launched in response to the assassination of Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr, which was confirmed by Hezbollah Secretary General Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah on August 25. Nasrallah referenced the operation as "Arbaeen" and addressed Israeli reactions and statements regarding the strike.

Nasrallah revealed that the Glilot base is situated approximately 110 kilometres from the Blue Line, the border between Lebanon and Israel, and about 1,500 meters from the edge of Tel Aviv. The second target, Ein Shemer airbase, is roughly 75 kilometres from Lebanon and 40 kilometres from Tel Aviv.

He noted that numerous drones were used to strike the targets effectively. However, he pointed out that Israel has been concealing detailed information about the attack, which will eventually be revealed.

Operation Arbaeen was executed in two phases. The first phase involved targeting facilities and barracks in northern Israel with hundreds of missiles to deplete and destroy Iron Dome and interceptor missiles, preparing the ground for the second phase. This latter phase saw swarms of drones attacking the specified targets.

This latest escalation follows a period of heightened tension in the region, which began with a deadly conflict in Gaza triggered by Hamas-led attacks on October 7. The regional situation has been fraught with periodic exchanges and heightened stakes.

The recent flare-up was preceded by Israel blaming Hezbollah for a rocket attack that struck a soccer field in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights, resulting in the deaths of children. Although Hezbollah denied responsibility, Israel's response included military escalation, raising regional anxieties.