IDF thwarts Hezbollah infiltration attempt into Israeli territory

Heavy exchanges of fire between Israel and terrorists on the Lebanese border were reported Monday as the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said they successfully thwarted a Hezbollah encroachment attempt.

"IDF troops thwarted an infiltration attempt by a Hezbollah terror squad in the Mount Dov area. No injuries to IDF troops were reported," the IDF spokesperson said in a statement.

"[Three to five] Hezbollah terrorists crossed a few meters into Israeli territory. They were spotted and fired at by IDF forces in the area. They fled back to Lebanese territory, their situation is unknown," the IDF added.

Lebanese reports indicated that four "commandos" were killed in the incident, but no further confirmation was provided.

An earlier report by the Hezbollah-affiliated outlet Al Mayadeen said that an anti-tank missile was launched at Israeli troops near an IDF post, but the IDF did not confirm this.

Following the infiltration attempt, the IDF responded with heavy shelling inside Lebanon by artillery and tank forces, as well as airstrikes, Hebrew media reported.

As the incident unfolded, the IDF instructed Israeli residents nearby to stay in their homes, and avoid any non-essential driving in the area. The instruction was lifted when the event ended.

Tensions on Israel's northern border have risen to seething levels over the past few days, as Hezbollah threatened to avenge the killing of its operative and two militants in Damascus last week. Since then, Israel has bolstered its defenses along the border, awaiting for a response.

This is a developing story