Israeli Bombings in Beirut: Hezbollah’s Response and Ongoing Conflict
Israel carried out multiple bombings on Friday in southern Beirut, one of which targeted the “headquarters” of Hezbollah. According to various Israeli media reports, the intent was to eliminate the head of the Islamist movement, Hassan Nasrallah. In the early hours of Saturday, the Israeli army announced a new round of “selective bombings” against Hezbollah weapons depots hidden “under civilian buildings” in southern Beirut, urging the population to evacuate.
“There is no truth in the false accusations of the Zionist enemy about the presence of weapons or weapons depots in civilian buildings,” responded the powerful political and military actor in Lebanon, Hezbollah.
Impact of the Bombings
The Lebanese Ministry of Health reported that Saturday’s airstrikes resulted in at least six deaths and 91 injuries, with rescue efforts ongoing in the search for possible survivors under the rubble. Israeli aviation also targeted “terrorist locations” in southern Lebanon, claiming to have killed several Hezbollah commanders, including leaders of their missile unit.
Continued Military Actions
In addition to bombings, Israeli aircraft were reported flying over the airport of Beirut and surrounding areas to prevent Iran from sending weapon shipments to Hezbollah. Israel’s military announced ongoing bombings aiming at Hezbollah’s “headquarters,” specifically targeting Hassan Nasrallah, although sources claim he is unharmed.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that bombings in Lebanon would continue “until all their objectives are achieved,” undermining hopes for a temporary 21-day truce proposed by the United States and France.
International Reactions
Antony Blinken, U.S. Secretary of State, called upon both Israel and Hezbollah to “stop shooting.” In a UN Security Council meeting, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi condemned the “complicity of the United States in the crimes of Israel.”
Hezbollah’s Retaliation
In retaliation for the assault on its headquarters, Hezbollah launched a barrage of rockets targeting the town of Safed in northern Israel, which resulted in property damage. Additionally, Hezbollah claimed responsibility for rocket fire on the port city of Haifa.
Casualties and Damage
The airstrikes in densely populated neighborhoods like Haret Hreik left massive destruction, with reports indicating the collapse of several buildings and significant civilian casualties. Rescue operations continue amidst scenes of panic, with many residents fleeing in fear.
Statements from Leaders
Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati condemned the assault as a “genocidal war,” while Netanyahu held firm on Israel’s military strategy, stating, “While Hezbollah chooses the path of war, Israel has no other option.”
The Larger Context of the Conflict
Clashes between Israel and Hezbollah have escalated significantly since the onset of the war in Gaza against Hamas, raising fears of a broader conflict engulfing the Middle East. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres indicated this situation could lead to “the abyss of generalized war with unimaginable consequences.”
Humanitarian Crisis
The ongoing conflict and Israeli bombings in Lebanon have resulted in over 700 deaths and displacing around 118,000 individuals, as indicated by UN reports. The ongoing hostilities have exacerbated humanitarian issues in the region, with many civilians bearing the brunt of the violence.
Future Implications
As the Israeli military prepares for potential ground incursions against Hezbollah, the situation remains perilous. Netanyahu’s declaration regarding a commitment to achieve “total victory” in Gaza reflects the intensifying nature of this conflict.
Statistics of the Ongoing Conflict
| Country | Death Toll | Displaced Individuals |
|---|---|---|
| Lebanon | 1,500+ | 118,000+ |
| Israel | 1,205 | — |
| Gaza | 41,534+ | — |
The ongoing violence, first instigated by Hamas’s attack on October 7, 2023, has resulted in significant loss of life and a humanitarian crisis in the region, necessitating urgent international intervention and dialogue to restore peace.