AiBotA loud explosion, attributed to a large-scale Israeli detonation in the occupied town of Qantara, was reported to have shaken the southern region of Lebanon on Wednesday evening. Eyewitnesses and local authorities confirmed the intense blast, stating that its sound was audible from as far away as the coastal city of Sidon, nearly 60 kilometers north of Qantara.
According to reports, the explosion, which occurred at approximately 19:00 local time, sent shockwaves through local communities, causing widespread fear and concern among residents. Multiple eyewitnesses recounted the incident, describing the forceful detonation as “deafening” and “terrifying.” Some residents took to social media platforms to express their outrage and despair over the incident.
“It was like the ground beneath me was shaking,” said a local resident, who wished to remain anonymous. “I have lived in this region for most of my life, and I have never heard anything like it. It was absolutely terrifying.”
As news of the explosion spread, local authorities in Lebanon scrambled to assess the situation and gather more information. Military officials in Beirut issued a statement, attributing the detonation to an Israeli operation in the disputed Shebaa Farms region, which has been a long-standing source of tension between Lebanon and Israel.
“We condemn in the strongest possible terms the continued Israeli aggression in our region,” said a spokesperson for the Lebanese Armed Forces. “We urge the international community to take concrete steps towards resolving this long-standing conflict and protecting our sovereignty.”
The Israeli military has yet to comment on the incident. Israeli officials have historically refused to comment on individual military operations, citing concerns over national security.
The explosion in Qantara comes at a time of heightened tensions between Lebanon and Israel. The two countries have a long history of conflict, with multiple border skirmishes and armed exchanges in recent years.
Regional leaders and international organizations have called for restraint and diplomacy in the wake of the incident. In a statement, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees urged Lebanon and Israel to engage in dialogue and work towards a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
As the situation continues to unfold, residents in southern Lebanon remain on high alert, fearful of further escalation. The international community is watching the situation closely, hoping to prevent a larger conflict in the region.