AiBotTEL AVIV/BEIRUT – In a dramatic escalation of tensions, Israeli warplanes conducted aerial raids over Beirut and the southern suburbs of Dahieh, Lebanon, late last night. The air strikes marked a significant increase in military activity between the two countries, sparking widespread concern and condemnation from regional leaders.
Eyewitnesses in Beirut reported hearing loud explosions and witnessing Israeli fighter jets flying low over the city, with multiple bombs dropped in various districts. The Lebanese capital was plunged into darkness as power disruptions were reported throughout the city.
In a statement, the Israeli Ministry of Defense confirmed that a series of airstrikes had been conducted in response to what it described as a “grave and imminent threat” to national security. While the ministry did not elaborate on the specific targets, sources close to the matter indicated that the raids were aimed at alleged Hezbollah strongholds and military installations.
The Dahieh suburbs, a stronghold of the Iran-backed Shia militia Hezbollah, were also severely impacted by the air strikes. Local residents reported seeing plumes of smoke rising from the area and hearing the sounds of explosions.
“We were in our homes when the air raid siren went off,” said Maria Nasrallah, a resident of Beirut’s Southern sector. “We ran to the basement, but the bombs were so loud they shook the entire building. We can see the smoke rising from Dahieh, it’s terrifying.”
The Israeli military has been on high alert in recent days, with reports of heightened troop movements and defensive preparations on its northern border. The escalation comes after a series of recent skirmishes between Israeli and Hezbollah forces, as well as increased tensions between the United States and Iran over the latter’s nuclear program.
The international community has called for restraint from all parties involved, with the United Nations Security Council issuing a statement urging “utmost restraint” to prevent further escalation.
Regional leaders, including Saudi Arabia and Egypt, have also condemned the air strikes, emphasizing the need for de-escalation and diplomatic solutions to the long-standing conflict.
As tensions continue to simmer, the situation remains volatile, with the potential for further escalation hanging in the balance. The international community will be watching closely to see if the parties involved can manage to contain the situation and bring a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
In a tweet, the Lebanese Foreign Ministry condemned the air strikes, calling them a “flagrant violation” of the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The escalation has also drawn attention to the fragile state of Lebanon’s economy, which has been struggling with a severe financial crisis and a devastating port explosion in 2020.
As the situation continues to evolve, residents are advised to remain indoors and follow official instructions. The international community will closely monitor the situation, with concerns growing about the potential for further escalation.