Israel Launches Air Strikes On Beirut For The First Time In Five Days.
In a significant escalation, Israel has resumed air strikes on Beirut, targeting what it describes as “strategic weapons” hidden by Hezbollah in the southern Dahieh region. The strikes on Wednesday mark the first time in five days that the Israeli military has hit the Lebanese capital amid growing tensions in the region.
Lebanese authorities have reported at least 18 deaths in the eastern and southern parts of the country as Israel continues its bombardment. These strikes are part of the broader conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, which has seen heightened hostilities over the past weeks.
In Gaza, Israel continues its offensive, claiming to have killed a Hamas commander in the northern part of the Strip, alongside more than 50 alleged “terrorists.”
International pressure is mounting, with the United States urging Israel to increase aid access to Gaza. On Tuesday, the US warned that failure to improve humanitarian conditions could result in the reduction of military assistance. In response, some aid has since been allowed into northern Gaza.
Beirut residents, meanwhile, express growing anxiety as the violence worsens. Mohamed Gradi, 57, speaking from Beirut, stated, “There is no part of Lebanon where people feel safe.” He described widespread displacement, with thousands fleeing from southern regions, including Dahieh, and even traditionally safe areas such as the Bekaa Valley and Christian-majority areas.
Another resident, Mostafa Saleh, 48, warned that Israel’s continued strikes could further bolster support for Hezbollah, saying, “If they think that they can scare the supporting environment of Hezbollah this way, on the contrary… we are homeless, living not like human beings.”
The conflict has displaced more than 1.2 million people across Lebanon, with many seeking refuge in the capital. Displaced families have been seen sheltering on the streets of central Beirut, some sleeping on rolled-out rugs and makeshift bedding.
As the situation remains tense, with no signs of immediate resolution, civilians on both sides of the border face an uncertain future amidst the ongoing violence.
