Beirut, Lebanon – Intense Israeli airstrikes on Beirut’s southern suburbs continued into Sunday night as conflict between Israel and Hezbollah escalated. At least five large explosions were reported in the area, sending plumes of smoke into the sky. Despite the bombardment, Lebanon’s National News Agency confirmed that civilian flights at Beirut Rafic Hariri International Airport continued uninterrupted. The airport is located near an area targeted by Israel’s strikes, raising concerns about civilian safety.
Clashes in Sourn Lebanon Intensify
Hezbollah claimed that it has killed at least 25 Israeli soldiers since Israel launched its ground operations into southern Lebanon earlier this week. The Israeli military, however, reported that only nine of its soldiers had died. In retaliation, Israel has carried out numerous air raids, targeting Hezbollah positions. The Israeli army claims to have killed 250 Hezbollah fighters in the past few days of fighting.
The intensity of conflict in southern Lebanon reflects Israel’s broader military strategy to neutralize Hezbollah, which it considers a significant threat to its northern border. Videos circulating on social media verified by Al Jazeera showed massive explosions in the Lebanese capital, as residents reported hearing airstrikes throughout the day.
Humanitarian Crisis Worsens in Gaza
Meanwhile, Gaza remains under heavy bombardment. In the latest attacks on northern Gaza, at least 11 people were killed in strikes targeting residential areas, according to local civil defense teams. Rescue operations have been severely hampered by continued airstrikes and a lack of heavy rescue equipment. Many people remain trapped under rubble in Beit Hanoon, Beit Lahiya, and Jabalia areas, further complicating relief efforts.
The situation in Gaza has grown dire, with more than 41,600 Palestinians killed since the war began in October 2023. the constant barrage of airstrikes has destroyed essential infrastructure, leaving much of the population displaced and without access to basic services. The humanitarian crisis has drawn international concern, with Qatar welcoming French President Emmanuel Macron’s call to halt weapons supplies to Israel. Qatar’s Foreign Ministry expressed support for an end to hostilities, in line with UN resolutions and international law.
International Reactions and Protests
Protests against ongoing conflict have erupted globally. In Rome, a pro-Palestine demonstration turned violent as police clashed with protesters defying a government-imposed ban. Italian police fired tear gas to disperse the crowd after masked rioters infiltrated the demonstration. Chants of “Free Palestine” and “Criminal Israel” echoed through the streets, with 34 reported injuries, most of the police officers.
Hezbollah and Israeli Forces Continue Clashes
airstrikes in Beirut came after Israel issued an evacuation order for residents in certain buildings in southern suburbs. Israeli military’s warnings have done little to reduce violence, with more attacks reported on Beirut’s outskirts, including in the Choueifat area just outside the city. As Israeli forces expand our operations into Lebanon, the civilian toll in both Gaza and Lebanon continues to rise, further complicating diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the conflict.
Conclusion
As war between Israel and Hezbollah intensifies, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and Lebanon continues to deteriorate. With international protests against violence growing and diplomatic efforts struggling to gain traction, the future of the region remains uncertain, and the civilian population bears the brunt of conflict.
