Israel launched multiple airstrikes on southern Beirut late Thursday, according to Lebanese sources, following its deadliest military action in the West Bank in decades.
The strikes are part of Israel’s response to recent attacks, including a missile barrage from Iran. The United States has indicated that Israeli strikes on Iranian oil facilities are a possible course of action.
Iran claims its missile attack was in retaliation for the killing of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah and other key figures.
Israeli airstrikes have killed over 1,000 people in Lebanon, according to the Lebanese health ministry, and displaced hundreds of thousands amid the country’s ongoing economic crisis.
“We are peaceful civilians in our homes,” said 82-year-old Hassan Ammar, whose residence in Beirut was partly destroyed by the airstrikes after fleeing south Lebanon.
Israel also targeted Hezbollah positions in Beirut, with reports of 11 consecutive strikes on the group’s southern stronghold.
Another strike hit a warehouse near Beirut’s airport.
In parallel, Israel’s air raid on the Tulkarm refugee camp in the West Bank killed 18 people, the deadliest strike in the region since 2000.
Among those killed was Hamas leader Zahi Yaser Abd al-Razeq Oufi, accused of orchestrating attacks against Israel.
The Israeli military has expanded its operations, including ground raids in southern Lebanon, where Hezbollah holds significant control.
Israel also called for the immediate evacuation of over 20 villages and the city of Nabatiyeh in Lebanon.
Hezbollah has responded with continued rocket fire and border skirmishes, resulting in further casualties on both sides.
The death toll continues to rise, with the Lebanese health ministry reporting 37 killed and 151 injured in the last 24 hours.
Israeli authorities report nine soldiers killed in Lebanon.
Iran, a key supporter of Hezbollah, has vowed to escalate its response if Israel retaliates for the missile strikes.
Tensions remain high as both sides prepare for further confrontations.