Israeli forces carried out more than 30 air raids overnight on Beirut’s southern suburbs in what has been described as the “most violent night” of attacks since the military offensive against Lebanon began. The massive explosions rocked the capital, with Israeli warplanes targeting a Hezbollah stronghold in south Beirut. The strikes included a petrol station and a hotel near the city’s airport. The number of casualties from the attacks is still unknown.
The shift in Israeli focus from Gaza to Hezbollah has intensified the conflict in Lebanon. Thousands of residents have been forced to flee their homes and seek shelter in the city center to escape the bombardments in their neighborhoods. Lebanon’s government is struggling to cope with the increasing number of displaced people.
In response to the attacks, Hezbollah launched retaliatory strikes on Israeli soldiers in northern Israel and forces attempting to infiltrate Lebanon. Israeli authorities reported at least nine soldiers killed in southern Lebanon, with additional strikes in Tripoli that resulted in the deaths of Hamas leaders.
Al Jazeera correspondent Ali Hashem reported that Beirut is experiencing a high level of intensity and continued bombardment, likening it to the situation in Gaza. The airstrikes near the airport have caused significant damage and destruction in the city. The Lebanese armed group’s response to Israeli attacks has further escalated the conflict, leading to more casualties on both sides.
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