The confrontation between Israel and Hamas continues, while the situation is becoming increasingly tense along Israel’s northern border with Lebanon where exchanges of fire have become more frequent during the weekend. The UN forces in Lebanon reported that a rocket struck their base in the country, without making victims. In Syria, there are reports on Iranian forces moving toward the border with Israel, including troops tasked with missile operations. Jake Sullivan, US National Security adviser, stated that the White House is worried about a possible direct involvement of Iran.
In the south, rocket fire from Gaza towards Israel remains intense. Air alarms keep going off, including in Tel Aviv and the Ben Gurion airport area, and in Jerusalem in the area near the Knesset. Notably, Hamas released a video of how it unearths EU-built water pipes and turns them into missiles. Israeli airstrikes against the Gaza Strip continue to come in waves and focus primarily on the north of the territory. However, strikes target the South too, as it is believed that most commanders are located in that area, while low-level fighters are in the North.
Lastly, evacuation efforts continue. On Saturday, the Israeli National Security Council increased its travel warning for Jordan and called to “avoid all non-essential travel”. The US evacuates some of its citizens, and immediate family members from Haifa to Cyprus by ship, today, Monday, 16 October. A variety of airlines continue operating, including Air France, Azimuth, Cyprus Airways, El Al, Etihad, Fly Dubai, Flyone, Georgian Airways, Hainan Airlines, Israir, Red Wings, Tarom.