The operation aims to combat a militant resurgence in the area, said the Israeli military, which also targeted southern Beirut with a night of heavy bombardment.

As Israel continues its ongoing war in Gaza and its offensive against Hezbollah in Lebanon, the Middle East continues to await Israel's vowed response to Iran's recent ballistic missile attack. NBC News' Matt Bradley reports from Beirut and breaks down the events leading to the strong possibility of Israel striking Iran.

Iran’s missile attack on Israel this week stood out for its large scope and limited impact. Some analysts say it calls into question the value of Iran’s arsenal.

Hezbollah rockets hit Israel's third-largest city of Haifa early on Monday, in the first direct attack on the northern city that evaded the military's usually reliable air defence systems.

Israeli rescue force members inspect the site where a projectile fell,amid cross-border hostilities between Hezbollah and Israel, in Haifa, northern Israel October 6, 202