Escalating Conflict: Israel Strikes Hezbollah's Command in Beirut Amid Growing Tensions
Heavy smoke filled the skies over Beirut following an Israeli airstrike targeting Hezbollah's central command in the district of Dahieh on Friday, as reported by the Lebanese military. This attack, cited as a precise military operation by spokesperson Daniel Hagari, was aimed at what he framed as the 'epicenter of Hezbollah's terror,' located in heavily populated civilian areas.
Although the specifics of the operation remain unverified, Israeli sources indicated that the intended target was Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, with local media reports suggesting an assessment of whether he sustained injuries during the strike. Witnesses in Beirut described hearing significant explosions, suggesting a targeted and impactful attack.
Images circulating on news agencies revealed massive plumes of smoke rising over Dahieh, a region known for its substantial Hezbollah presence. Reports from Hezbollah's own media outlet, Al-Manar, indicated that at least four buildings were destroyed in the airstrike, with some sources claiming as many as six structures were leveled.
This airstrike is part of a broader escalation of military actions by Israel against Hezbollah, which has poised threats of a ground invasion in light of ongoing tensions. Prior to the strike, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the UN General Assembly, stating that military efforts would persist until security was restored for citizens returning to northern Israel. This rhetoric reflects Israel's ongoing concern over daily cross-border attacks from Hezbollah, leading to significant insecurity for residents in northern areas of the country.
Netanyahu also directed sharp warnings towards Iran, asserting that efforts to dismantle Hezbollah would continue 'until all targets are achieved.' As the situation develops, the conflict seems poised to intensify, raising concerns over civilian safety amidst military operations in densely populated Lebanese areas.
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