Rocket sirens wail in Israel as Hezbollah launches Yom Kippur attacks

Rocket alarm sirens sounded in areas of Israel on Saturday as Hezbollah militants in Lebanon launched attacks across the border on the most sacred Jewish holiday, Yom Kippur.

Alarms wailed in Haifa after two drones were launched toward the northern Israeli city. Both aircraft were intercepted, the Israeli military said.

Other parts of northern Israel also came under fire, with the military reporting that around 40 projectiles had been registered since early Saturday.

There were no immediate reports of injuries or damage. Iran-backed Hezbollah claimed responsibility for several attacks.

Since Friday evening, people in Israel have been observing Yom Kippur, or the Day of Atonement. The faithful fast and hope for the forgiveness of their sins. Most TV and radio stations stop their broadcasts and shops, cinemas, bars and restaurants are closed.

Apart from police vehicles and emergency services, no cars are driven on the holiday. As a result, many people across the country are on the roads and even motorways on bicycles, e-scooters and on foot.

Israel's army has significantly intensified its fight against the Shiite Hezbollah militia since last month, including massive airstrikes and a ground offensive in Lebanon. The group's leader
Hassan Nasrallah was killed on September 27.