Final answer:
Israel invaded Southern Lebanon in 2006 and the Gaza Strip in 2009, targeting Hezbollah and Hamas respectively, as a response to attacks from these groups.
Step-by-step explanation:
The country that invaded Southern Lebanon in 2006 and the Gaza Strip in 2009 was Israel. The 2006 conflict, often referred to as the July War, occurred when Israel launched a military offensive against Hezbollah, an anti-Israel group operating out of Lebanon. The situation arose due to cross-border attacks by Hezbollah, and the conflict quickly escalated, with a significant impact on Southern Lebanon. In 2009, the situation in Gaza escalated as Israel engaged in a military operation known as Operation Cast Lead against Hamas, in response to rocket fire from the Gaza Strip towards Israeli territory. These events are among the numerous instances where tensions have boiled over in the Middle East, where Israel has taken military actions against various groups it sees as threats to its security.
The conflicts in Southern Lebanon (2006) and Gaza Strip (2009) underscore the complex geopolitical landscape in the Middle East. In both instances, Israel, citing security concerns, took military action against Hezbollah and Hamas, respectively. These events reflect longstanding tensions in the region, involving multiple actors with differing perspectives and goals. The aftermath of these conflicts continues to shape regional dynamics, contributing to the broader narrative of conflict and resolution in the Middle East.