Lebanon-backed Hezbollah launched missiles targeting northern Israel on Tuesday, igniting forest fires across the region. Large swathes of northern Israel were engulfed by wildfires, with rescue teams working on Monday to bring them under control.

Many Israelis residing in towns near the Lebanon border evacuated months ago due to the escalating conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. Local media reported that some houses caught fire during the recent wildfires.

Israel Fire and Rescue Services released a statement saying that the fires began on Monday (June 3) and had already shrouded thousands of acres of land. 

"As of this time, there are three active sites" near the border with Lebanon, the Israel Fire and Rescue Service posted on X earlier Tuesday. 

The Israeli military sent equipment and soldiers to help contain the flames, which spread quickly due to hot and dry weather, and six military reservists were lightly injured.

"The forces gained control over the locations of fire, and at this stage, no human life is at risk," the military said.

The fire advanced towards Kiryat Shmona, a town where frequent clashes between the army and Hezbollah have occurred since Hamas' assault against Israel on October 7, prompting a large-scale evacuation.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office released a statement saying that it was closely monitoring the situation.

Government spokesman David Mencer said that attacks launched by Hezbollah "have caused significant fires".

In some areas of northern Israel firefighters had been battling "fire for almost 24 hours in extreme weather conditions while striving to reach out and save lives, and prevent damage to property," Mencer said.

Image source: Reuters