Israel has intensified its military operations in Lebanon, targeting areas including southern Beirut and a Palestinian refugee camp. This marks a significant escalation in ongoing hostilities with the Iran-backed group Hezbollah.
Key Developments:
1. Airstrikes in Beirut:
– Israel conducted multiple airstrikes on southern Beirut, described as “very violent” by local officials. The strikes caused widespread alarm, with loud booms and visible flashes reported across the city.
2. Hezbollah Casualties:
– The Israeli military claims to have killed over 400 Hezbollah fighters since launching ground operations in southern Lebanon. This includes 30 commanders, according to Israeli military spokesman Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari.
3. Evacuation Orders:
– In light of the increasing bombardment, the Israeli army has urged residents to evacuate southern Beirut, recommending they move at least 500 meters away from targeted buildings.
4. Missing Hezbollah Leadership:
– Reports indicate that Hashem Safiddine, a potential successor to the slain Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, has been unreachable since Friday, raising concerns about leadership stability within the group.
5. Tunnel Destruction:
– Israeli forces claim to have destroyed a 250-meter section of a terrorist tunnel in southern Lebanon, allegedly intended for use in a Hezbollah invasion of Israel.
6. Global Reactions:
– French President Emmanuel Macron has called for a halt to arms deliveries to Israel and criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s ground operations in Lebanon. Netanyahu responded strongly, calling Macron’s remarks a “shame” and emphasizing Israel’s fight against what he termed “the forces of barbarism.”
7. Humanitarian Response:
– The UAE has initiated a relief campaign for Lebanon, responding to the escalating crisis with a $100 million aid package. An aircraft carrying 40 tonnes of medical supplies has been dispatched to assist those affected.
8. Anticipation of Future Attacks:
– As the anniversary of Hamas’s October 7 attack approaches, Israeli military officials express heightened readiness, anticipating possible threats to the home front.
9. Continued Displacement:
– Thousands, including Palestinian refugees, are fleeing the conflict, exacerbating an already dire humanitarian situation.
10. International Focus:
– The situation remains tense, with global rallies marking the anniversary of the Gaza conflict, highlighting the international community’s ongoing concern about the escalating violence in the region.
This ongoing situation remains fluid, with developments occurring rapidly as both military actions and diplomatic responses unfold.