Powerful new explosions rocked Beirut’s southern suburbs late Saturday as Israel expanded its bombardment in Lebanon, targeting both Hezbollah and Hamas fighters. Thousands of people, including Palestinian refugees, continued to flee the conflict, while protests were held worldwide to mark the approaching anniversary of the Gaza war. The explosions began near midnight and continued into Sunday, with Israel urging residents to evacuate areas in Dahiyeh, a Hezbollah stronghold in the southern suburbs of Beirut.
Israel’s military confirmed striking targets near Beirut and said about 30 projectiles had crossed from Lebanon into Israeli territory. Reports suggested the strikes targeted buildings near the Beirut airport and a former Hezbollah-run broadcaster. However, conflicting reports emerged about the targeting of an oxygen tank storage facility. Hezbollah claimed it successfully targeted Israeli soldiers near northern Israel, further escalating the conflict between the two groups.
Israeli strikes on the northern Beddawi camp in Lebanon resulted in casualties, including an official from Hamas’ military wing and civilians. The aftermath showed destroyed buildings and displaced families, adding to the toll of the ongoing conflict. The escalating violence has resulted in the deaths of numerous Lebanese civilians, medics, and fighters, with many more displaced from their homes in a short period.
The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, supported by Iran, has intensified, with both sides exchanging fire almost daily. The recent escalation began with an attack by Hamas, followed by Hezbollah’s rocket launches into Israel. The fighting has been the worst since the 2006 war between Israel and Hezbollah, resulting in casualties on both sides. Efforts are underway to reach a ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon, involving regional and international initiatives to halt the violence.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated Israel’s right to defend itself against attacks, vowing to respond to any threats. Israeli forces have carried out ground raids against Hezbollah in southern Lebanon, targeting infrastructure and tunnel shafts used by the group. Meanwhile, Palestinian casualties continue to rise in Gaza, with thousands displaced by Israeli strikes in civilian areas. Israeli forces have urged Palestinians in strategic areas to evacuate to designated humanitarian zones.
The relentless violence in the region has led to a humanitarian crisis, with hundreds of thousands fleeing Lebanon into Syria, and Palestinians in Gaza facing widespread destruction and displacement. The toll on civilians, including children, has been devastating, with calls for urgent ceasefire and humanitarian aid. The conflict shows no signs of abating, with both sides determined to continue their military operations. As the international community calls for peace, the people caught in the crossfire suffer the consequences of ongoing hostilities.
