The recent strike that cut off the Masnaa border crossing is the first instance of this crucial route being blocked since the conflict erupted. According to Lebanese General Security, over 256,000 Syrian nationals and approximately 82,

Eight soldiers were killed in the first casualties of Israel’s ground campaign in Lebanon, the Israeli military said.

The Middle East is bracing for a wider war as Israel fights in Gaza and Lebanon, and as Israel promises a strong response to Iran's missile strikes.

Israel carried out massive airstrikes, hitting suburbs of Beirut and cutting off the main border crossing between Lebanon and Syria.

Addressing a large crowd during Friday prayer sermons, Khamenei called the attacks "legal and legitimate", adding that Iran will not "procrastinate nor act hastily to carry out its duty" to confront Israel.