Intensified Israeli Strikes Target Hezbollah Amid Ongoing Conflict
Major Israeli Offensive in Lebanon
On Wednesday, Israel executed what it termed its most extensive coordinated assault of the ongoing conflict, striking over 100 Hezbollah positions within a mere 10 minutes across various locations including Beirut, southern Lebanon, and the eastern Bekaa Valley. These attacks targeted densely populated commercial and residential zones in central Beirut, occurring without prior warning just hours after a ceasefire was declared in the US-Israeli conflict with Iran, according to reports. The skies over parts of Beirut were filled with black smoke as explosions reverberated throughout the city. Emergency services rushed to the scene of the destruction, searching through damaged buildings and burnt vehicles, with at least one apartment complex reported to be affected. The casualty figures remain unclear at this time.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the ceasefire, which had been in place for six weeks regarding the US-Israeli conflict with Iran, did not extend to Lebanon. The Israeli military confirmed that operations against Hezbollah would persist. "The battle in Lebanon continues, and the ceasefire does not include Lebanon," said Avichay Adraee, a spokesperson for the Israeli military, as reported by various news outlets.
The Israeli military claimed it targeted missile launchers, command centers, and intelligence facilities, accusing Hezbollah of operating from civilian areas. They emphasized that the Lebanese state and its citizens must oppose Hezbollah's presence in civilian zones and its military capabilities.
Historically, Israel has seldom targeted central Beirut since the latest hostilities with Hezbollah commenced on March 2, although it has frequently attacked southern and eastern Lebanon, as well as the southern suburbs of Beirut. A Hezbollah representative indicated prior to the strikes that the group was open to mediation but had not agreed to a ceasefire.
The conflict intensified after Hezbollah launched missiles in response to US and Israeli strikes on Iran, leading Israel to initiate extensive airstrikes and a ground offensive in Lebanon. The death toll in Lebanon has surpassed 1,530, including over 100 women and 130 children, with more than 1 million individuals displaced.
Earlier on Wednesday, some families displaced in Beirut and Sidon began making plans to return home following news of the ceasefire with Iran. However, this changed after Netanyahu reaffirmed that military actions in Lebanon would continue. "We can't endure this any longer, living in a tent, without proper hygiene, and facing uncertainty," expressed Fadi Zaydan, 35. He added that his family opted to remain in Sidon for the time being due to safety concerns.