Recent Israeli airstrikes have left at least 22 people dead in eastern Lebanon, according to the Lebanese Health Ministry. The strikes targeted five areas near Baalbek without prior evacuation warnings from the Israeli military. Additionally, southern suburbs of Beirut were hit, reportedly causing severe damage, including a collapsed 11-story building. These attacks followed a brief lull in hostilities after US envoy Amos Hochstein's visit to Beirut, aiming to mediate a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah.
The Israeli military claims its targets were Hezbollah's weapon depots and command centers, issuing evacuation notices before the strikes. In southern Lebanon, particularly near Tyre and Khiam, Israeli forces clashed with Hezbollah fighters, leading to further evacuations. Hezbollah, in turn, retaliated by launching rockets into Israel, a significant escalation given the distance involved.
The conflict, reignited after Hamas's attack on Israel, has significantly intensified since September. The Israeli military has increased air and ground operations against Hezbollah in southern Lebanon, resulting in substantial casualties on both sides. The humanitarian toll is severe, with over 3,500 Lebanese reported dead and thousands displaced since October.
The United Nations has expressed concern over the potential for wider regional escalation, particularly involving Syria, where increased violence has been noted. Diplomatic efforts continue to stall, with political tensions compounded by international disputes, such as Hungary's stance on the International Criminal Court's warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu.
As the violence continues, the region remains on edge, with the potential for further escalation looming large.
