Israeli airstrikes have intensified across southern Lebanon and Beirut's suburbs as Israel ramps up its operations in the region. The Israeli military has urged residents to evacuate more than two dozen Lebanese towns and villages, signaling a significant escalation in the conflict.
After focusing on its conflict with Hamas in the Gaza Strip for nearly a year, Israel has shifted its attention to the Hezbollah militant group in Lebanon. Over the past two weeks, Israel has increased its attacks on Hezbollah, which holds significant power in southern Lebanon and other parts of the country.
Israeli forces have initiated limited ground incursions into southern Lebanon, raising concerns about the potential spread of fighting across the region. In response to Israel's actions, Iran launched a ballistic missile attack on Israel, resulting in minimal casualties and damage. Israel has vowed to retaliate against these attacks.
Latest Developments
The Israeli military has called for the evacuation of Nabatieh, a major city in southern Lebanon, and other communities located north of a U.N. buffer zone established after the 2006 war between Israel and Hezbollah. Both sides have accused each other of border violations.
Israeli airstrikes have targeted Beirut's southern suburbs, with a recent strike in central Beirut resulting in the deaths of nine people, including seven Hezbollah-affiliated civilian first responders. While Israel has primarily focused on areas with a strong Hezbollah presence, the strike in central Beirut marks a significant escalation.
Clashes between Israeli soldiers and Hezbollah in southern Lebanon have resulted in the deaths of at least eight Israeli soldiers. Israel claims to have targeted hundreds of Hezbollah sites across Lebanon.
Phosphorus Bomb Accusations
Lebanon's state-run news agency has accused Israel of using phosphorus bombs in the central Beirut airstrike, potentially violating international law. While no concrete evidence has been provided, residents reported a sulfur-like smell, indicating the possible use of white phosphorus, a highly destructive substance.
Human rights groups have condemned the use of white phosphorus in populated areas, citing it as a violation of international law. The Israeli military has neither confirmed nor denied the use of white phosphorus in the Beirut strike, stating that they possess smoke shells containing white phosphorus, which they claim are lawful under international law.
International Response
Countries worldwide are advising their citizens to leave Lebanon and are organizing evacuations to ensure their safety. Several nations, including Spain, Italy, Colombia, Japan, Australia, and the United Kingdom, are facilitating the evacuation of their citizens from Lebanon.
Efforts are underway to transport foreign nationals out of Lebanon, with ships and planes being deployed for this purpose. The international community is closely monitoring the situation in Lebanon as tensions continue to escalate.
For more updates on the Israel-Lebanon conflict, visit AP News.
