In a series of deadly attacks, Israeli forces targeted Hezbollah military infrastructure in southern Lebanon, following the killing of a Hamas leader in Beirut. The clashes between Israel and Hezbollah have intensified since the start of the Gaza war in October, resulting in the deaths of several Hezbollah members and Lebanese civilians. The Israeli military released nighttime videos of the attacks, showing bombs hitting and destroying residential buildings near civilian structures. Additionally, launches were detected crossing Lebanese territory and landing in open areas in northern Israel.
The escalation of violence came after the killing of Saleh al-Arouri, a deputy leader of Hamas, in a drone strike in Beirut. Hezbollah leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah condemned the killing, calling it a “major, dangerous crime.” Nasrallah’s remarks indicate that neither Israel nor Hezbollah is willing to back down, raising concerns about the potential for further retaliation. The funeral of al-Arouri is scheduled to be held in Beirut, adding to the tense atmosphere in the region.
While Israel has not officially claimed responsibility for the attack in Beirut, there are growing concerns that the conflict in Gaza is spreading across the region. The United Nations has called for restraint, emphasizing the devastating consequences that an escalation of hostilities could have for both Israel and Lebanon. French President Emmanuel Macron urged Israel to avoid an escalatory attitude, particularly concerning Lebanon.
The situation remains highly volatile, with fears of an all-out war between Israel and Hezbollah. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu previously warned that Beirut would be turned “into Gaza” if Hezbollah initiated a full-scale conflict. As tensions continue to rise, the international community is closely monitoring the situation and urging all parties to exercise restraint.
Overall, the recent attacks on Hezbollah infrastructure and the killing of a Hamas leader in Beirut have intensified the already volatile situation in the region. The ongoing clashes between Israel and Hezbollah pose a significant threat to stability and peace in the Middle East.
