Rockets From Lebanon Hit Israel, Could Open Northern Front

January 8, 2009 6:27 a.m. EST

Jerusalem, Israel (AHN) - Four rockets fired from Lebanon struck the northern Israeli city of Nahariya on Thursday, wounding two people and raising fears the current Gaza offensive could spill over.

The Israeli army said it returned fire to "pinpoint targets," but did not provide any details. Schools were closed as a precaution in Nahariya after the attacks.

The Israeli Defense Forces believe the rocket attacks were just in solidarity for the Hamas militants in the Gaza Strip, but that it is not a declaration of war from the Hezbollah.

Civilians in the western Galilee region were advised by the Israeli Defense ministry to stay close to shelters after the attacks from Lebanon.

The exchange of fire between Israel and Lebanese militants came as the Israeli military launched 60 new air strikes on the Gaza Strip Wednesday. There had been mounting fears the violence in Gaza could spread to northern Israel and the Lebanese border, similar to the brief but fierce 34-day war against the Hezbollah in 2006.

Diplomatic efforts have been increased to secure a ceasefire in the Gaza conflict as Egypt and France continue to engage all sides to reach an agreement.

Thursday's attack injured two people and a number of people were shocked, officials say.