The Israeli military has confirmed that it conducted a series of targeted strikes in the area of Lebanon’s capital Beirut overnight. The strikes were aimed at weapons storage facilities and other parts of Hezbollah’s infrastructure. The Israel Defense Forces spokesperson in Arabic issued evacuation orders for several neighborhoods in anticipation of strikes on targets belonging to the Iran-backed militant group.
Reports from the ground in Beirut indicated that there were constant blasts and explosions for several hours. Saturday night’s strikes were described as some of the most sustained and intense in the southern suburbs since the conflict began. Witnesses reported hearing rumbling sounds, flashes in the distance, and subsequent blasts. Some of the strikes triggered secondary explosions, creating balls of fire that illuminated the night sky and echoed across the city.
As of now, the number of casualties resulting from the strikes is not yet clear. The situation remains tense as the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah continues to escalate in the region.