TEL AVIV — The Israeli government announced a nationwide state of emergency on Monday evening, set to last until September 30, in response to escalating strikes on Lebanon and the anticipated increase in rocket fire from Hezbollah.

According to the Israeli daily Yedioth Ahronoth, the Cabinet voted to declare a "special home front situation" across the country, with the decision made via telephone at the proposal of Defense Minister Yoav Gallant.

The daily Haaretz reported that this declaration grants the army authority to issue directives to the public, including banning gatherings, limiting educational activities, and issuing "additional instructions required to save lives."

The announcement follows an Israeli assassination attempt targeting Ali Karaki, a senior Hezbollah military commander. Israeli Army Radio indicated that airstrikes on a southern suburb of Beirut aimed at Karaki, but details on his status remain unclear.

Lebanese health authorities reported at least 274 fatalities, including 21 children, and over 1,024 injuries from Israeli attacks since Monday morning, forcing thousands of civilians to flee their homes. The international community has expressed concerns that these strikes may escalate the ongoing conflict, potentially spreading the violence regionally. — Agencies