2024-11-15 18:06:00
The southern suburbs of the Lebanese capital Beirut have been hit again by Israeli air strikes. According to a reporter, there were at least three explosions. Black smoke rose over the area. As in the morning and in recent days, the target of the attacks was the Rubairi district. Israel’s army had previously issued an evacuation call for a building in the district.
The Israeli armed forces accuse the Shiite militia Hezbollah of hiding its structures in residential areas. The targets of the air strikes included weapons depots and command centers of the Iran-allied organization, which has been attacking Israel with rockets from Lebanon since the start of the Gaza war over a year ago.
Earlier in the day there were reports of Israeli air strikes in the southern suburbs of Beirut, known as Dahija. These are considered Hezbollah’s strongholds.
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What factors contribute to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, as discussed by Dr. Leila Haddad in the interview?
**Interview with Middle East Analyst, Dr. Leila Haddad**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Haddad. In light of the recent Israeli air strikes in the southern suburbs of Beirut, particularly targeting the Rubairi district and areas known to be strongholds of Hezbollah, what does this escalation tell us about the ongoing conflict?
**Dr. Haddad:** Thank you for having me. The renewed air strikes highlight a significant escalation in the long-standing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. It indicates Israel’s strategy of preemptive action against perceived threats, especially in the wake of Hezbollah’s frequent rocket attacks from Lebanese territory. Furthermore, the nature of these strikes, targeting weapons depots and command centers within civilian areas, raises serious humanitarian concerns.
**Interviewer:** Indeed, the humanitarian aspect cannot be ignored. With reports of civilian evacuations and increasing explosions, how should the international community respond to ensure the safety of civilians in these conflict zones?
**Dr. Haddad:** The international community must prioritize diplomatic solutions while condemning any actions that jeopardize civilian safety. Humanitarian corridors should be established to protect non-combatants and provide aid. Additionally, a concerted effort to bring both sides to the negotiating table is essential to de-escalate tensions.
**Interviewer:** Given the complexity of this situation, what are the long-term implications for Lebanon and its political stability if these air strikes continue?
**Dr. Haddad:** Continued air strikes threaten to further destabilize Lebanon, potentially causing unrest among the civilian population who may feel caught in the crossfire. The strengthening of Hezbollah’s position amidst this conflict could also undermine the Lebanese government’s authority, complicating any efforts for national reconciliation or state-building.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Haddad, for your insights. As we contemplate the situation, we pose a question to our readers: Should military actions like these air strikes be justified in the name of national security, or do they exacerbate the humanitarian crisis and ultimately contribute to a cycle of violence? We invite you to share your thoughts and engage in this important debate.
