The Israeli Town on the Frontline with Hezbollah

Metula, Israel’s northernmost town, sits along the border with Lebanon. Encircled by the neighboring country on three sides, it is among the first targets when Hezbollah, an Iranian-backed militant group, launches attacks. Over the past six weeks, Israeli officials report 12 soldiers and two civilians have lost their lives to Hezbollah rocket strikes. Meanwhile, Lebanon’s authorities claim more than 2,000 people have been killed in Israeli air raids since hostilities resumed on 2 March following a Hezbollah assault on Israel.

BBC Correspondents on the Ground

The BBC’s Hugo Bachega spoke with families in Beirut as over a million Lebanese people fled their homes due to the escalating conflict. In southern Israel, Sebastian Usher reported from Dimona, which suffered an Iranian missile strike. Footage from Russian state broadcaster RT shows Steve Sweeney ducking as a missile hits, capturing the intensity of the war. Lebanon’s state-run National News Agency stated at least 10 people were killed and 27 injured in the attack.

“The threat of bombs and regime crackdowns has become a daily reality for many,” said an Iranian resident interviewed by Dan Johnson at a crossing in northwest Iran.

The BBC Verify team explored the potential of the Royal Navy in securing the Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil shipping route. A verified video of a fire at an Iranian oil depot highlighted the strategic significance of the area, especially after the US-Israeli offensive began on 27 February.

Displacement and Dangers

As the conflict raged, displaced Palestinians in the area were warned to fasten their tents against strong winds. The war has disrupted trade at the Middle East’s largest port, with Iran’s blockade of the Strait of Hormuz causing significant economic strain. Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper defended the UK’s response to the conflict, countering President Trump’s criticism.

Footage from social media depicts flames engulfing a building on Sunday morning, following intensified attacks on the Gulf state. A witness’s video, confirmed by the BBC, shows a drone crash near the airport. Explosions shook the capital overnight as its main airport came under airstrikes. In the Beirut suburb of Dahieh, some residents left their homes amid ongoing Israeli air raids.