Israel Intensifies Strikes on Hezbollah Targets in Lebanon Amid Escalating Tensions

AFP | Beirut

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Israel unleashed a series of airstrikes yesterday on Hezbollah strongholds in Beirut and southern Lebanon, escalating military operations as Lebanese officials review a U.S.-proposed truce.

The intensified attacks follow an Israeli strike earlier this week on neighboring Syria, which killed two leaders of the Islamic Jihad. The Palestinian militant group, known for its collaboration with Hamas in Gaza, confirmed the casualties.

Hamas, Hezbollah, and Islamic Jihad—all supported by Iran—have been key players in the ongoing conflict. Iran, a staunch adversary of Israel, called for a swift resolution to the nearly two-month-long war in Lebanon.

Escalation Since September

Israel has increased its bombardment of Lebanese targets since September 23, deploying ground troops after a year of sporadic cross-border clashes initiated by Hezbollah fighters in response to the Gaza war.

Footage from AFPTV captured the aftermath of fresh airstrikes in southern Beirut yesterday. The Israeli army had earlier urged residents in targeted areas to evacuate.

Lebanon’s National News Agency (NNA) reported four strikes during the day, with additional "heavy strikes" in the evening. The Israeli military stated the strikes targeted a "weapons storage facility" and a Hezbollah "command center" in south Beirut.

Elsewhere, the southern city of Tyre experienced airstrikes near UNESCO-listed ancient ruins, according to NNA.

Civilian Casualties and Regional Impact

In eastern Lebanon, funerals were held for 14 civil defense workers killed in an Israeli strike on Thursday. Relatives expressed outrage, claiming the victims were non-combatants dedicated to emergency response.

Hezbollah retaliated with rocket attacks on northern Israel, including military sites in the Haifa region. The Israeli military reported that around 65 projectiles crossed the border during these exchanges.

Lebanese authorities estimate the conflict has claimed more than 3,452 lives since October last year, when hostilities between Hezbollah and Israel intensified.

Gaza Operations Continue

In Gaza, the Israeli military reported ongoing operations in northern areas, focusing on Jabalia and Beit Lahia. Israel stated the offensive aims to prevent Hamas from regrouping.

Meanwhile, a UN-backed assessment over the weekend warned of an impending famine in northern Gaza, where intensified fighting has displaced at least 100,000 people. UN figures underscore the dire humanitarian toll of the conflict.

This surge in violence highlights the growing complexity of the region’s geopolitical landscape, as efforts to broker peace remain elusive.