Israel launched a wave of airstrikes against Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon, moments before the militant group’s leader said two days of debilitating attacks on its members amounted to a declaration of war.

Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant has said military action targeting Lebanon's Hezbollah militia "will continue." "Hezbollah feels persecuted," Gallant was quoted as saying by his office after a briefing on operational developments in northern Israel on Thursday.

The Israeli military said it was striking Hezbollah targets in Lebanon on Thursday, shortly before the movement's leader was due to give a speech.

Israeli defense minister says Hezbollah 'will pay an increasing price' as Israel seeks to return residents to its north