Israel Strikes Beirut After Lebanon Rockets Fired

TEL AVIV: Israel launched an airstrike on southern Beirut after claiming rockets were fired from Lebanon into its territory.

The attack targeted a Hezbollah-linked facility storing UAVs in the Dahieh district, according to the Israeli military.

Israel accused Hezbollah of using civilian areas to shield its military infrastructure, endangering Lebanese residents.

Before the strike, the IDF ordered residents in parts of southern Beirut to evacuate immediately.

Lebanon’s government closed schools after the evacuation order, citing safety concerns for students and staff.

Ceasefire Tensions

The attack marks the first Israeli strike on Beirut since a ceasefire was agreed upon in November.

Israel’s defense minister warned that Beirut and northern Israel would face equal consequences for any hostilities.

“If Kiryat Shmona has no peace, neither will Beirut,” he stated, reinforcing Israel’s stance on border security.

Despite tensions, Hezbollah denied responsibility for the projectiles fired into Israeli territory on Friday.

The ceasefire agreement had reduced violence, but recent cross-border strikes have reignited hostilities.

Military Meeting

Israeli leaders, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz, held security talks.

Officials assessed the situation and potential military actions following the latest escalation.

Israeli airstrikes have repeatedly hit southern Lebanon, targeting what it calls Hezbollah military sites.

Hezbollah remains a powerful force in Lebanon, backed by Iran and involved in past conflicts with Israel.

Both sides continue to monitor the border closely, with fears of further confrontations.

Regional Concerns

Lebanese authorities condemned Israel’s actions, warning of escalating violence in the region.

Civilians in Beirut are concerned about future strikes and the possibility of wider conflict.

Israel has justified its operations as necessary to neutralize security threats from Hezbollah.

The situation remains tense, with international calls for restraint to prevent further escalation.

Observers fear that renewed clashes could destabilize Lebanon, already struggling with economic and political crises.

Global Reaction

The United Nations has urged both sides to maintain the ceasefire and avoid further violence.

Regional powers are monitoring developments, with concerns about broader Middle East instability.

Diplomatic efforts may be needed to prevent a larger confrontation between Israel and Hezbollah.

The situation remains fluid, with both nations closely watching each other’s next moves.

Further updates are expected as new information emerges.