Israeli Airstrikes Target Hezbollah Strongholds in Southern Beirut
The Israeli Air Force conducted two significant airstrikes in southern Beirut early on October 20, 2024, targeting areas associated with Hezbollah. According to Lebanese state media, the strikes hit a residential building in Haret Hreik, located near a mosque and a hospital. This military action follows a warning from the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), urging residents to evacuate two neighborhoods in anticipation of further strikes aimed at Hezbollah installations.
The IDF's evacuation order specifically affected the Haret Hreik and Hadath neighborhoods, where the military identified buildings housing Hezbollah facilities. The Israeli army stated that it would act against these locations in the near future, emphasizing the potential danger to civilians in the vicinity.
Escalating Conflict in the Region
This latest escalation comes amidst a broader conflict involving Israel and Hamas, with reports indicating significant casualties in Gaza. The Gaza Civil Defense reported at least 73 fatalities from an Israeli strike in Beit Lahia on the same day as the Beirut strikes, contributing to a rising death toll that has surpassed 400 in the region since October 6. The Israeli military has been conducting an extensive air and ground offensive against Hamas, with claims that the civilian toll reported by Gaza authorities does not reflect the precision of their operations.
In addition to the strikes in Lebanon, a drone attack targeted Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's private residence, although he and his wife were not present. Netanyahu attributed this incident to Iran's allies and warned of severe repercussions for those threatening Israeli citizens.
The ongoing conflict has drawn international attention, with G7 defense ministers calling for increased humanitarian aid to Gaza and urging Iran to cease support for militant groups such as Hamas and Hezbollah.
