Israel says warplanes struck hundreds of multiple-rocket-launcher barrels; White House spokesperson says US is ‘afraid and concerned about potential escalation’

• Full report: Israel bombards southern Lebanon after Hezbollah chief vows ‘punishment’

Israel lifted orders restricting movement and large gatherings issued on Thursday night for a number of communities in northern Israel and the Golan Heights, its military said on Friday, according to Reuters.

The restrictions were ordered after the start of an intense wave of Israeli strikes on southern Lebanon on Thursday afternoon which added to growing fears of a serious escalation in months of conflict along the border.