Israeli Airstrikes Target Beirut Suburbs Amid Escalating Tensions with Hezbollah
Israeli military conducts airstrikes on Beirut's southern suburbs following Hezbollah's rocket attacks, leading to significant casualties and displacement.
The Israeli military has launched airstrikes on Beirut's southern suburbs, targeting areas associated with Hezbollah, following the group's recent rocket and drone attacks into northern Israel. The strikes resulted in at least 52 fatalities and over 150 injuries, according to Lebanon's Ministry of Social Affairs.
In response to the escalating conflict, Israel has deployed additional troops into southern Lebanon and issued evacuation orders for residents of more than 80 villages near the border. The Israeli military's Arabic spokesperson warned civilians to evacuate immediately, stating that remaining in the area could endanger their lives.
Hezbollah has declared its readiness for "open war" with Israel, citing the ongoing Israeli military actions. A senior Hezbollah official stated that the group's patience has ended, leaving it with no option but to return to resistance.
The conflict has led to significant displacement, with tens of thousands of people fleeing their homes in southern Lebanon, the Bekaa Valley, and Beirut's southern suburbs. The Lebanese government has condemned the Israeli strikes and called for international intervention to prevent further escalation.
In a related development, U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed a desire for the United States to play a role in selecting Iran's next leader, following the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Trump dismissed the possibility of Khamenei's son, Mojtaba, succeeding his father, stating that he is a "lightweight" and emphasizing the need for a leader who will bring harmony and peace to Iran.
