In a significant escalation of hostilities, an Israeli airstrike struck the southern suburbs of Beirut on Tuesday, resulting in the death of at least one woman and injuring 68 others. The attack has further heightened tensions between Israel and Hezbollah, the Lebanese militant group.
The Israeli military confirmed that the airstrike targeted a Hezbollah commander allegedly responsible for recent rocket attacks on Israeli-controlled areas, including a deadly assault on the Golan Heights that killed 12 youths. However, it remains unclear if the intended target was hit. Hezbollah has denied involvement in the Golan Heights attack and condemned the Israeli strike, describing it as a “great stupid act” that targeted a civilian area.
The airstrike, which struck Haret Hreik—a densely populated neighborhood with both Hezbollah’s political and security operations—caused significant damage. The blast collapsed part of an apartment building and severely damaged a neighboring structure, causing minor damage to a nearby hospital. The strike was reportedly carried out by a drone that fired three rockets.
Lebanon’s public health ministry reported that 68 people were injured, with some in serious condition. Local hospitals have called for blood donations to assist the wounded. The strike also led to substantial damage to infrastructure, with debris and broken glass scattered across the affected area. Residents reported extensive destruction and disruptions, including broken windows and damaged buildings.
Hezbollah officials have vowed retaliation, while Lebanese caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati condemned the attack, emphasizing the proximity to a major hospital. The airstrike marks a significant escalation, with previous exchanges of fire between Israel and Hezbollah generally confined to a lower level of conflict. The last Israeli airstrike on Beirut occurred in January, targeting a top Hamas official, and was the first since the 2006 war between Israel and Hezbollah.
The White House, through press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, stated that the U.S. would leave it to Israel to address its military operations but emphasized that a diplomatic solution remains a priority. The ongoing conflict has raised concerns about potential further escalation and its impact on regional stability.
Sources By Agencies
