New Delhi: Israel launched a series of ferocious airstrikes targeting Hezbollah strongholds across southern Beirut, Lebanon, continuing a military campaign that began last night. These intense operations, described as Israel’s most significant strikes on Beirut since shifting its focus from Gaza, have resulted in widespread destruction, fear, and chaos in civilian areas.
The attacks reportedly targeted key Hezbollah installations, including missile units and weapons depots. Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) announced the killing of Muhammad Ali Ismail, Hezbollah’s missile commander in southern Lebanon, along with his deputy and several senior Hezbollah officials. The strikes caused devastation, with plumes of thick smoke rising above the city, sending hundreds of people fleeing from their homes.
One local resident, Ahmad Ahmad, described the airstrikes as feeling “like an earthquake,” while media reports indicate the destruction of multiple buildings and casualties, including 91 wounded and six confirmed dead. Despite claims from Israel that the strikes targeted weapons depots, Hezbollah has denied these allegations.
Hezbollah’s Response and Nasrallah’s Whereabouts
Hezbollah responded to the Israeli bombardment by launching retaliatory rockets into Israel. Amid the attacks, speculation swirled regarding the whereabouts of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, who is reportedly in hiding to avoid assassination. While Israeli media suggested he was a primary target, a Hezbollah source informed AFP that Nasrallah was “fine.”
Nasrallah remains an influential figure, especially among Lebanon’s Shiite community, and is considered the key to determining whether war or peace prevails.
Netanyahu’s UN Address and Regional Tensions
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the United Nations General Assembly, vowing to continue military operations against Hezbollah until Israel’s northern border is secured. He warned Hezbollah and Iran, accusing Tehran of fueling the conflict by supporting the militia.
Netanyahu issued a stark warning: “If you strike us, we will strike you,” and suggested that Israel’s military reach could extend throughout the Middle East if necessary. His speech was met with protests, as diplomats from various countries walked out in condemnation of the ongoing violence in Gaza, where the death toll has surpassed 42,000, with many displaced and entire neighborhoods reduced to rubble.
Hezbollah Command Structure Targeted
The Friday night strikes on Hezbollah’s southern Beirut strongholds were reportedly the largest in scale, involving tens of tons of explosives. Israeli forces believe that Hezbollah’s command structure, located in the Dahiyeh suburb, was severely compromised, though reports suggest Nasrallah may have survived the assault.
Despite extensive damage, Hezbollah has not officially confirmed the deaths of its top leaders. IDF spokesperson Daniel Hagari stated that Hezbollah’s central headquarters were specifically targeted in the strikes, and the IDF had informed the United States in advance.
Global Reactions and Growing Humanitarian Concerns
Iran’s President, Masoud Pezeshkian, condemned the Israeli airstrikes as a “flagrant war crime,” escalating regional tensions. The United Nations and international humanitarian organizations have voiced deep concern over the escalating violence in Lebanon. UN humanitarian coordinator Imran Riza warned, “We are witnessing the deadliest period in Lebanon in a generation, and many fear that this is only the beginning.”
As the situation intensifies, the international community is increasingly alarmed, calling for de-escalation and protection of civilians. However, with no clear path to resolution, the region faces further uncertainty and potential escalation.
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