The Basta neighborhood of Beirut was the target of an attack on Saturday morning that unleashed at least four missiles. According to sources, Israel is stepping up its military efforts against Hezbollah, which includes this strike. Witnesses described the explosion from the airstrike as strong, and it caused major damage to the surrounding region.
Escalating Conflict Between Israel and Hezbollah
The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah has been ongoing for nearly a year, initially sparked when Hezbollah fired rockets at northern Israel in support of Hamas during the Gaza war. Recently, the violence has escalated further. Israel has been carrying out airstrikes on southern Lebanon, including Beirut’s southern suburbs and the Bekaa Valley, where several senior Hezbollah leaders have been killed. In retaliation, Hezbollah has launched rockets deeper into Israel.
Destruction in Beirut
According to Lebanon’s National News Agency, the airstrike destroyed an eight-story building in Beirut. Al Jadeed, a Lebanese TV station, broadcasted footage showing the devastation, with one building completely destroyed and several others heavily damaged. The explosion occurred around 4 am, shaking the Lebanese capital. Security officials confirmed that at least four bombs were dropped during the attack.
Fourth Israeli Strike on Beirut in a Week
This marked the fourth Israeli airstrike on central Beirut this week. The majority of Israel’s attacks have focused on Hezbollah-controlled southern suburbs. Last Sunday, an Israeli airstrike killed a Hezbollah media official in the Ras al-Nabaa district of Beirut.
Background of the Conflict
The recent conflict erupted after Hezbollah launched attacks in solidarity with Hamas, following the latter’s October 7, 2023, assault on southern Israel. In response, Israel began a large-scale offensive in Lebanon, which included airstrikes and a ground troop deployment in southern Lebanon.
Efforts for a Ceasefire
To mediate the situation, US envoy Amos Hochstein visited Lebanon and Israel this week. After meetings in Beirut, Hochstein reported that progress had been made toward a ceasefire. He continued his discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Israel Katz, hoping to bring the violence to a halt.