HEADLINES
**Lebanon Rockets Target Northern Israel, IDF Retaliates**: Heavy barrage from Lebanon causes damage but no injuries; Israel responds with shelling and interceptions.
**Hezbollah Attacks Escalate Israel-Lebanon Tensions**: Airstrikes on Hezbollah targets lead to civilian casualties and IDF fatalities, raising fears of full-scale conflict.
**Israel Cancels Mount Meron Pilgrimage Amid Conflict**: Security concerns prompt relocation to Jerusalem amid controversy over sensitive location, highlighting impact on cultural events.

The time is now 03:00 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

In the latest developments in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, a heavy barrage of rockets was fired from Lebanon towards northern Israel shortly before midnight on Friday. The attack caused damage to communities like Manara and Dovev but fortunately resulted in no injuries. In response, the Israel Defense Forces retaliated by shelling the launch sites and intercepting a suspicious aerial target over Dishon. This incident marked the second time Dovev was targeted on Friday.

The Israeli military also conducted airstrikes on Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon, hitting buildings and infrastructure used by the terror group. Additionally, a drone strike targeted a group of Hezbollah operatives. These actions come amidst heightened tensions along the Israeli-Lebanese border, with Hezbollah launching frequent attacks in solidarity with Gaza amid the conflict with Hamas.

Hezbollah's attacks have resulted in civilian casualties on the Israeli side, as well as fatalities among IDF soldiers. The violence has escalated fears of a full-scale conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, reminiscent of their 2006 war. The latest incidents underscore the volatile situation in the region and the potential for further escalation.

In a separate development, an 18-year-old individual not affiliated with UCLA was arrested for alleged assault during a clash at a pro-Palestinian, anti-Israel encampment on the university campus. The incident, which involved violence between counterprotesters and demonstrators, has raised concerns over campus safety and tensions surrounding the Israel-Hamas conflict.

Furthermore, due to security concerns stemming from the conflict, Israel has canceled the annual Lag B’Omer pilgrimage to Mount Meron in the Galilee. Instead, the government organized a mass event at the Shimon HaTzadik tomb in Jerusalem. However, this alternative location has also sparked controversy due to its sensitive location in Sheikh Jarrah, a flashpoint for clashes between police and Palestinians.

The decision to relocate the pilgrimage highlights the impact of the conflict on religious and cultural events in Israel, with safety considerations taking precedence. The cancelation of the Meron event and the subsequent relocation underscore the challenges faced by authorities in managing public gatherings amid heightened security threats and regional tensions.

These recent events reflect the complex dynamics at play in the Israel-Hamas conflict, with repercussions extending beyond military engagements to impact civilian life, international relations, and cultural practices within Israel. As the situation continues to evolve, the need for de-escalation and diplomatic solutions remains paramount to prevent further violence and instability in the region.

Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: Ongoing War Report update.
I'm Noa Levi. Stay safe and informed.
Keep in mind that this AI-generated report may contain occasional inaccuracies, so consult multiple sources for a comprehensive view. Find the code and more details in the podcast description.

SOURCES
https://www.timesofisrael.com/heavy-barrage-of-rockets-fired-at-northern-israel-causing-damage-but-no-injuries/
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/Article-1101716
https://www.timesofisrael.com/police-arrest-jewish-teen-for-alleged-assault-at-ucla-anti-israel-encampment/
https://www.timesofisrael.com/fearing-hezbollah-in-north-state-moves-lag-bomer-event-to-east-jerusalem-flashpoint/
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/Article-1101708