Escalating Violence Between Israel and Hezbollah
Hezbollah fired approximately 250 rockets into Israel from Lebanon, marking one of the heaviest bombardments since fighting intensified in September 2024. This attack targeted northern and central Israel, including areas near Tel Aviv, causing injuries and damaging buildings. The escalation comes in response to an Israeli airstrike on Beirut, which killed at least 29 people and left dozens more injured.
Israeli Airstrike on Beirut and Hezbollah’s Retaliation
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed a direct hit on a neighborhood in central Israel, which left homes in flames and caused significant damage. Rockets also fell in cities such as Petah Tikva, Haifa, Nahariya, and Kfar Blum, according to local reports. Hezbollah claimed responsibility for targeting two military sites in Tel Aviv as retaliation for the Israeli attack on Beirut. The IDF responded with airstrikes on 12 Hezbollah command centers in Dahieh, a Hezbollah stronghold in southern Beirut.
Death Toll and Ceasefire Talks
Following the violence, Lebanon’s health ministry revised the death toll from 20 to 29 due to the Israeli airstrike on Beirut. In total, more than 3,670 people have been killed in Lebanon, with over 15,400 injuries and 1 million people displaced since October 2023. The latest round of fighting has raised tensions even further, with Israel and Lebanon reportedly moving toward a ceasefire agreement to end the ongoing violence between the Israel Defense Forces and Hezbollah.
US-Proposed Ceasefire Deal Under Negotiation
Israeli media reported that Israel had given the green light to proceed with a US-proposed ceasefire plan, although significant gaps in the deal remain. The ongoing conflict has placed immense pressure on both sides, particularly Lebanon, which faces devastating losses as the war with Hezbollah continues to intensify.
Key Takeaways:
- Hezbollah fires 250 rockets into Israel after deadly Israeli airstrikes on Beirut.
- Over 29 people killed in Beirut due to Israeli airstrikes; Israel continues military actions.
- Israel and Lebanon moving towards ceasefire negotiations, but challenges persist.
- 3,670 deaths reported in Lebanon, with Israel’s campaign against Hezbollah intensifying
