Israeli military forces conducted strikes across Lebanon, including in the capital, Beirut, following rocket fire from the Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah. The escalation comes in the wake of Hezbollah’s claim that the attacks were in retaliation for the recent killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei during US and Israeli strikes on Tehran.
Reports indicate that loud explosions were heard in Beirut early on Monday, as the Israeli military announced it had begun targeting Hezbollah positions throughout Lebanon. The strikes were described as precise actions against senior members of the group, particularly in areas where Hezbollah maintains significant influence. Residents in southern Lebanon were seen fleeing their homes, with many evacuating to safer areas following warnings issued by the Israeli military.
This incident marks the first significant military engagement between Israel and Hezbollah since a ceasefire agreement was reached in November 2024, which had ended over a year of conflict. The Israeli military has stated that it regularly conducts operations against Hezbollah, citing violations of the ceasefire by the group. On Monday, the military reported that several projectiles fired from Lebanon landed in open areas of Israel, with no immediate reports of damage or injuries.
Lebanese officials have expressed concern over the renewed violence. Prime Minister Nawaf Salam condemned the rocket fire as “irresponsible,” stating that it jeopardizes Lebanon’s security and provides Israel with justification for its military actions. He announced plans to convene an emergency meeting to address the situation and protect the Lebanese populace. President Joseph Aoun echoed these sentiments, warning that attacks from Lebanese territory could draw the country into a broader regional conflict.
As tensions escalate, the humanitarian impact is becoming evident, with significant displacement reported from southern suburbs of Beirut and other areas near the Israeli border. Local media have shown images of families fleeing in vehicles, while the Lebanese government has made provisions for public schools to serve as shelters for those displaced by the violence.
