Escalation in Lebanon: Israel Targets Hezbollah's Stronghold
In a significant military escalation, Israel has conducted heavy airstrikes on Hezbollah's stronghold in the southern suburbs of Beirut, reportedly aiming for the group's leader, Hassan Nasrallah. Despite Israeli claims that the strikes were precise and targeted, sources close to Hezbollah confirmed that Nasrallah was unharmed. The airstrikes, described as the most violent since the 2006 conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, resulted in the destruction of six buildings and left residents in panic, with many fleeing the area amid thick smoke and explosions.
Retired Major General Fayez al-Duwairi emphasized that if Nasrallah's injury is confirmed, Hezbollah should retaliate by targeting Tel Aviv, which could escalate the conflict to a new level. He noted that the recent Israeli raids signify a breakdown of previously held red lines and that the Israeli military has initiated a series of assassinations, targeting key figures within Hezbollah. Al-Duwairi pointed out that while Hezbollah's responses have so far been restrained, a proportional response to the scale of destruction is necessary to maintain deterrence against Israel.
The Global Response and Implications of the Conflict
The airstrikes came shortly after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the UN General Assembly, pledging to continue operations against Hezbollah. Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati condemned the strikes, accusing Israel of waging a
and ignoring calls for a ceasefire. The United States, a key ally of Israel, stated it had not received prior warning of the operation.
As tensions escalate, the potential for a ground invasion looms, with Al-Duwairi warning that such an operation could consume the gains made by Israel thus far. He noted that Hezbollah's strategy would rely on adapting to the terrain rather than defending a fixed position. The ongoing conflict has raised concerns about regional stability and the humanitarian impact on civilians caught in the crossfire.
