Israeli Airstrikes in Beirut Result in Multiple Casualties
At least 11 people have been confirmed dead and several others injured following a series of Israeli airstrikes that targeted a multi-story residential building in the densely populated Basta area of central Beirut. The Lebanese Civil Defense reported that the attacks occurred early Saturday morning, leaving a significant crater at the site, attributed to powerful 'bunker-busting' bombs. Rescue teams are actively searching for survivors among the rubble, with reports indicating that 23 individuals sustained injuries during the strikes.
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have not commented on the attacks, which are part of a broader pattern of strikes in the region, particularly aimed at Hezbollah strongholds in southern Beirut. This latest incident follows a previous airstrike that killed a Hezbollah spokesman and has raised concerns about escalating violence in Lebanon.
In addition to the casualties in Beirut, a separate attack on a hospital near Baalbek resulted in the deaths of the hospital's director and six colleagues, further intensifying the humanitarian crisis in the country. The IDF has stated it is investigating reports regarding the hospital attack.
Ongoing Conflict and International Reactions
The recent airstrikes coincide with discussions between U.S. President Joe Biden and French President Emmanuel Macron regarding efforts to establish a ceasefire in Lebanon. The two leaders addressed the escalating violence in the region, which has seen over 3,640 fatalities in Lebanon since the conflict intensified on October 8. The Israeli military claims its operations are aimed at dismantling Hezbollah's military capabilities, asserting that it targets 'terrorist command centers' and arms depots.
As tensions rise, the international community is closely monitoring the situation, with the G7 foreign ministers scheduled to discuss arrest warrants issued by the International Criminal Court against Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, for alleged war crimes in Gaza. The ongoing conflict not only affects Lebanon but also has significant implications for the broader Middle East, as violence continues to escalate in both Lebanon and Gaza.
