Israel's Evacuation Measures Amid Escalating Tensions with Lebanon and Gaza

Israel is evacuating 28 communities along the northern border with Lebanon due to increased cross-border fire between Israel and Hezbollah. The evacuation plan, approved by the Israeli Defense Minister, will move residents to state-funded guesthouses. Israeli military spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari stated that the evacuation will allow Israeli forces to operate more effectively. The U.S. government has begun evacuating American citizens from Haifa to Cyprus, and Secretary of State Antony Blinken has returned to Israel for the second time in a week. Meanwhile, Israeli forces are positioned along Gaza's border, preparing for a broad campaign against Hamas. Iran has suggested that Hamas may release hostages if Israel stops its airstrikes on Gaza.