Escalation in Beirut: Israeli Air Strikes Target Hezbollah Strongholds

In recent days, the situation in Lebanon has escalated dramatically, particularly in the southern suburbs of Beirut. An air strike on Friday sent thick plumes of grey smoke into the sky, marking a significant moment in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. This strike followed an evacuation call from the Israeli military, which warned residents of imminent danger.

According to Lebanon’s state-run National News Agency, the attack began when an Israeli drone fired two missiles at the suburb of Ghobeiry. This was followed by a “very heavy” air strike that resulted in the destruction of a building near municipal offices. The Israeli army spokesman, Avichay Adraee, took to social media platform X to issue a warning to residents, urging them to evacuate immediately for their safety. He specifically mentioned that the Ghobeiry area is close to facilities associated with Hezbollah, a group that has been at the center of the conflict.

As the situation unfolds, many civilians have been forced to flee their homes in the southern suburbs, which are known as a stronghold for Hezbollah. Despite the danger, some residents return during the day to check on their properties and businesses, highlighting the difficult choices they face amid the chaos. Reports also indicate that pre-dawn strikes occurred in the southern city of Nabatieh, further intensifying the conflict.

The Israeli military has claimed responsibility for targeting “command centers” of Hezbollah’s elite Radwan Force, as well as rocket launchers used to attack Israel. Over the past day, they reported striking more than 120 targets across Lebanon, including weapons storage facilities and command centers. This escalation follows a period of limited cross-border exchanges that began nearly a year ago, largely triggered by Hezbollah's actions during the Gaza war.

Since the conflict reignited on September 23, the toll on Lebanon has been devastating. Lebanese authorities report that over 3,380 people have lost their lives since last October, when hostilities between Hezbollah and Israel intensified. The economic impact has also been severe, with losses exceeding $5 billion and structural damage amounting to billions more, according to the World Bank.

The ongoing violence raises critical questions about the future of Lebanon and its people. As families are displaced and communities are torn apart, the need for a peaceful resolution becomes increasingly urgent. The international community must pay attention to these developments, as the consequences of this conflict extend far beyond the borders of Lebanon, affecting regional stability and global security.