For the first time since the November 2024 ceasefire, Israel launched an airstrike on Beirut, targeting what it described as a Hezbollah drone storage facility in the Dahiyeh neighborhood, a known Hezbollah stronghold. This escalation follows rocket fire from Lebanon into northern Israel, which Hezbollah denies responsibility for.
Background of the Conflict
The latest Israel-Hezbollah war erupted in September 2024, following Hezbollah’s increased attacks on northern Israel after Hamas’ October 7, 2023 assault on southern Israel. Despite a ceasefire agreement reached on November 27, 2024, Israel has continued airstrikes in southern Lebanon while maintaining a military presence in five Lebanese border locations.
The conflict has resulted in:
- 4,000+ deaths in Lebanon.
- 60,000 Israelis displaced from northern areas.
- Ongoing airstrikes despite ceasefire extensions.
International Response
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, speaking in Paris, condemned the strike as a violation of the ceasefire. French President Emmanuel Macron called Israel’s actions “unacceptable”, warning they could “play into Hezbollah’s hands.”
Meanwhile, the United Nations expressed deep concern over escalating violence, with UN Special Coordinator for Lebanon, Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, urging restraint.
Gaza Crisis Worsens
The strike on Beirut comes as Israel resumes military operations in Gaza, where over 50,000 Palestinians—many women and children—have been killed, according to Gaza’s Hamas-run Health Ministry.
Israel claims it will continue military pressure until:
- Hostages held by Hamas are released.
- Hamas is disarmed and removed from power.
Aid agencies, including the World Food Program and World Central Kitchen, have warned of a deepening humanitarian crisis in Gaza due to Israel restricting aid access, leaving over 90% of Gazans food-insecure.
