Hezbollah Escalates Attacks on Israel Following Deadly Airstrikes in Beirut

Hezbollah's barrage of rockets into Israel marks one of the most aggressive escalations in recent conflict, raising concerns about further violence and international mediation efforts.

In a dramatic escalation of violence, Hezbollah has launched approximately 250 rockets into Israel following an Israeli airstrike in Beirut that left 29 dead, marking one of the most significant bombardments in the ongoing conflict. The Israeli military reported injuries and damage to several buildings across northern and central Israel, including areas close to Tel Aviv. This barrage comes on the heels of a particularly devastating Israeli airstrike on central Beirut, which the Lebanese health ministry claims resulted in rising casualties, now totaling at least 84 fatalities.

Israel's police have confirmed that debris from the rockets has landed in urban areas, further heightening fears among residents. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reported that direct hits in certain neighborhoods caused extensive damage, with some homes reportedly engulfed in flames. The situation has resulted in Hezbollah reaffirming its commitment to retaliate against Israeli assaults targeting Beirut, with recent precision missiles aimed specifically at military installations within the city.

Moreover, reports indicate that the IDF has successfully targeted and hit 12 Hezbollah command centers in the southern suburbs of Beirut. After the airstrike, the Lebanese health authorities noted a significant increase in the death toll, raising earlier figures from 20 to 29 due to the severe impact of the surprise attack.

Israel's ongoing military campaign against Hezbollah aims to facilitate the safe return of approximately 60,000 residents who have fled from northern Israeli communities since the start of the conflict. However, the toll on Lebanese civilians has been staggering, with over 3,670 deaths and at least 15,400 injuries reported, alongside the displacement of more than one million individuals within Lebanon due to the fighting.

As the situation remains volatile, Israeli media have reported potential movement towards a ceasefire agreement, initiated by Hezbollah's military engagements and Israel's strategic responses. Israeli public broadcasters note that while progress has been made in discussions facilitated by U.S. officials, substantial gaps still exist that could hinder a lasting resolution to the ongoing hostilities.