Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant declared a 48-hour nationwide state of emergency this morning after the their military launched pre-emptive strikes against Hezbollah in Lebanon.

The emergency measure, effective from 08:30 AM IST aims to empower the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) to implement crucial directives, including restrictions on public gatherings and the closure of vulnerable sites. The decision comes in response to a significant escalation of hostilities, with Hezbollah claiming responsibility for firing over 320 rockets and several explosive-laden drones at northern Israel.