The United Nations special coordinator for Lebanon has warned of an 'imminent catastrophe' in the Middle East due to escalating violence between Israel and Hezbollah. Fighting intensified overnight, with Hezbollah launching missiles into Israel and Israel conducting air strikes on targets in southern Lebanon. Germany has stressed the 'urgent need' for measures to calm the situation and avoid further civilian casualties. The German government voiced deep concern over the escalation and emphasized the importance of a diplomatic solution to the conflict.