Israeli airstrikes have intensified in Beirut's southern suburbs, particularly targeting the Dayiyeh region, a stronghold of the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah. The recent strikes, which have been ongoing for five consecutive days, have caused significant damage to buildings in the area. Reports indicate that three specific areas were hit, resulting in large plumes of smoke rising from the affected structures. However, it remains unclear if there were any casualties as a result of the attacks.
The Israel Defense Forces have stated that the strikes were aimed at Hezbollah terrorist infrastructure, alleging that the Iran-backed group has embedded itself within the civilian population. Prior to the attacks, evacuation orders were issued across various locations to minimize civilian casualties.
Simultaneously, Israel has expanded its ground operation in southern Lebanon, coinciding with renewed negotiations for a ceasefire in the region. The US, through Ambassador Lisa Johnson, has presented a new ceasefire proposal to the Lebanese government. This proposal, the first of its kind from the US and Israel since a temporary ceasefire in September, is currently under consideration by Hezbollah.
Authorities in Lebanon are optimistic about Hezbollah's potential acceptance of the ceasefire terms and are expected to provide an official response to the proposal next Monday. However, Hezbollah has yet to confirm its stance on the matter.
Despite the ceasefire negotiations, the intensified Israeli strikes have continued across Lebanon, resulting in a significant number of casualties. The Lebanese Ministry of Health reported at least 59 deaths from Israeli airstrikes on Thursday alone. Most of the strikes have targeted Shia-majority areas where Hezbollah holds influence, but civilian areas outside of the group's control have also been impacted.
Meanwhile, Hezbollah has maintained its offensive by launching projectiles into northern Israel. The Israel Defense Forces identified at least 60 projectiles crossing from Lebanon into Israel on Saturday. The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah stems from months of border attacks, initiated when Hezbollah supported Hamas and Palestinians in Gaza with an attack on Israel.
Returning 60,000 civilians to their homes in northern Israel has become a key priority for the Israeli leadership amidst the escalating tensions in the region.
