The U.S. “was not aware of this operation and was not involved” in it, U.S. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said, adding that the U.S. is “still gathering information” about the explosions in Lebanon. He didn’t confirm that Israel was behind the attack.
The operation also shut down a significant part of Hezbollah’s military command and control system.
Hezbollah accused Israel of conducting the attack and pledged to retaliate.
Israeli officials said they are aware that a major escalation on the northern border is possible after the attack and said Israel Defense Forces are on high alert for a possible response by Hezbollah.
The operation was approved earlier this week during security meetings with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and senior members of his cabinet and the heads of the security services, a source with knowledge said.
It took place a day after U.S. envoy Amos Hochstein visited Israel and warned Netanyahu of the consequences of a major escalation in Lebanon.