Escalating Conflict: Heavy Airstrikes Target Hezbollah in Beirut
Heavy airstrikes targeted Hezbollah's stronghold in the southern suburbs of Beirut on Friday, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Iranian-backed group. Reports indicate that the strikes were aimed at Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, although sources close to the organization confirmed he was unharmed. The airstrikes, described as the most violent since the 2006 war, resulted in the destruction of six buildings and caused panic among residents, who fled the area amid the chaos.
Israeli military officials stated that these operations were part of a broader strategy to dismantle Hezbollah's military capabilities, particularly in response to ongoing rocket attacks from Lebanon into northern Israel. The strikes followed a series of Israeli operations targeting senior Hezbollah commanders, including the assassination of Ibrahim Aqil, commander of the elite Al-Radwan unit, and Mohammed Srour, head of Hezbollah's drone unit, in previous days.
Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati condemned the Israeli actions, accusing Israel of waging a 'genocidal war' and ignoring international calls for a ceasefire. He highlighted the severe humanitarian impact of the conflict, which has resulted in significant civilian casualties and widespread destruction.
The United States, a key ally of Israel, stated that it had not received prior warning of the airstrikes and reiterated its commitment to Israel's right to defend itself. Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasized that the U.S. would respond to any attacks on its interests in the region.
The situation remains tense, with Hezbollah vowing to retaliate against Israeli aggression, and the potential for further escalation looms large as both sides continue to exchange fire. The humanitarian crisis in Lebanon is deepening, with UNICEF reporting alarming rates of child casualties, raising urgent calls for international intervention to de-escalate the conflict.
