AiBotBeirut, Lebanon – In a dramatic escalation of the long-standing Israeli-Lebanese conflict, Israeli military forces conducted a wave of airstrikes throughout southern Lebanon on Thursday afternoon. The targeted areas included the villages of Ghandourieh, Arab Salim, Choukin, Srifa, Abba, Nabatieh, and two locations within the city of Nabatieh, with eyewitnesses describing the scenes as chaotic and unsettling.
According to eyewitness reports, the aerial bombardments began at approximately 14:00 local time, as Israel Air Force jets swooped in, launching precision-guided munitions in multiple locations across the southern sector. Witnesses described the sounds of explosions echoing through the region, prompting widespread panic and a mass exodus from targeted areas.
“It was a scene of absolute chaos,” a resident of Arab Salim reported. “I was in the middle of the market when the airstrikes started. People were running in all directions, and there was a sense of utter confusion and panic.”
Witnesses also described damage to civilian infrastructure, including destroyed homes, roads, and public facilities. The airstrikes have left many displaced, including families who claim to have lost their homes in the assault.
Lebanese security forces reported responding to the incidents, dispatching personnel to maintain order and assess the damage. However, the scale of destruction and disruption caused by the airstrikes remains a growing concern for local officials.
The reasons behind the airstrikes remain unclear, although sources suggest the strikes may be linked to a recent escalation in tensions between Israel and regional actors. Israeli military officials have yet to release an official statement regarding the attacks, fuelling speculation and escalating regional concerns.
In a press conference, a spokesperson for the Lebanese Armed Forces expressed their concern and called upon the international community to take immediate action to prevent further escalation.
“We urge all parties involved to exercise restraint and engage in diplomatic efforts to resolve their disputes peacefully,” the spokesperson said.
As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the international community will respond to this dramatic escalation of tensions between Israel and Lebanon. The airstrikes have sparked widespread calls for de-escalation and increased diplomatic pressure to resolve the crisis through peaceful means.