Israel has launched a significant military strike on Beirut, marking the first such action since a ceasefire was established with Hezbollah in November 2024.
Details of the Strike
The Israeli military reported that the strike targeted a Hezbollah drone storage facility located in the Dahiyeh neighborhood, a region known for its strong support of the militant group. In a bid to minimize civilian casualties, Israel’s army issued urgent warnings in Arabic for residents to evacuate the area before the attack.
Context of the Conflict
Friday’s strike was a response to alleged rocket fire from Lebanon into northern Israel, which Israel attributes to Hezbollah. However, Hezbollah has denied these accusations, claiming that Israel is using the situation as a pretext for further military actions against Lebanon. The conflict has escalated since Hezbollah began launching attacks following Hamas’s October 7, 2023 assault on southern Israel.
Impact on Civilians
In anticipation of the strike, the Lebanese government ordered the closure of all schools and universities in Beirut’s southern suburb of Hadath. Reports from the ground indicated that residents were seen fleeing the area in various ways, with shooting audible in parts of the southern suburbs.
The Broader Implications
This incident highlights the fragile state of the ceasefire that was supposed to bring stability after months of intense conflict, which resulted in over 4,000 deaths in Lebanon and the displacement of approximately 60,000 Israelis. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz emphasized that without peace in Israel’s northern communities, there would be no peace in Beirut.
International Reactions
The international community has expressed concern over the escalating violence. Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, the UN Special Coordinator for Lebanon, described the current situation as a „critical period for Lebanon and the wider region.” Meanwhile, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun condemned the latest strike as a violation of the ceasefire agreement, which was brokered with the help of the United States and France.
Continuing Violence
Despite the ceasefire, Israel has continued to conduct airstrikes in southern Lebanon, targeting what it claims to be Hezbollah positions. Last week alone, Israeli airstrikes resulted in six fatalities across multiple locations in Lebanon. As tensions remain high, it is evident that the situation could quickly deteriorate into further conflict.
Conclusion
The recent strike in Beirut underscores the ongoing volatility in the region, with both Israel and Hezbollah blaming each other for violations of the ceasefire. As military actions escalate, the humanitarian impact on civilians continues to grow, prompting urgent calls for diplomatic intervention to restore peace.
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