Israel has launched an airstrike in Beirut’s southern suburbs, specifically in the Dahieh area, which is known to be a stronghold for Hezbollah. This marks the first such attack in nearly a month, raising concerns about the ongoing ceasefire between Israel and the militant group. Despite an agreement aimed at reducing hostilities, Israel claims to have targeted Hezbollah-related sites almost daily, citing security threats.
The Israeli military stated that the strike aimed at a facility storing precision-guided missiles, which they argue poses a direct risk to Israel and its citizens. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office emphasized that Israel will not allow Hezbollah to strengthen its position in the region.
Witnesses reported seeing a large plume of smoke rising from the targeted building shortly after Israeli forces issued an evacuation order to residents nearby. Fortunately, Lebanon’s Civil Defence reported no casualties, and emergency crews quickly managed to extinguish the fire caused by the strike.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun condemned the attack, urging the United States and France, who are involved in overseeing the ceasefire agreement, to intervene and pressure Israel to halt its military actions. He warned that continued Israeli strikes could destabilize the region further.
The UN Special Coordinator for Lebanon, Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, also expressed concern. She noted that the strike caused panic among people hoping for a return to normal life and called for all parties to refrain from actions that could escalate tensions.
Earlier this month, a similar Israeli airstrike in the same area resulted in the deaths of four individuals, including a Hezbollah official. The situation remains tense, with both sides on high alert as the fragile ceasefire hangs in the balance.