Israel Declares Emergency as Hezbollah Retaliates; Sri Lankans Confirmed Safe

COLOMBO (News 1st) - Defence Minister Yoav Gallant announced a 48-hour nationwide state of emergency after the Israeli military launched what it called pre-emptive strikes in Lebanon.

The declaration on the state of emergency enables the IDF (Israeli military) to issue instructions to the citizens of Israel, including limiting gatherings and closing sites where it may be relevant.

Lebanon-based Hezbollah announced a large-scale rocket and drone launches towards Israel in an "initial response" to a top commander's killing, after Israel's military said it was carrying out a series of pre-emptive strikes against the group.

Sri Lankan Ambassador to Israel Nimal Bandara has confirmed that Sri Lankans in Israel are safe.

He told News 1st that Sri Lankans in the area should limit their activities outdoors.

He assured that their situation will be closely monitored.

He also urged passengers traveling to or from Tel Aviv's airport to seek the most current information regarding flight operations.