Israel launched retaliatory strikes on Beirut and Gaza on Saturday after rocket attacks hit its northern region and a drone reportedly targeted Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's holiday home.
The Israeli military said it struck Hezbollah arms facilities in southern Beirut following the Lebanese group's firing of rockets into northern Israel. Tensions soared as a drone was allegedly launched at Netanyahu's holiday residence, which he described as an assassination attempt by Hezbollah.
\"We will not tolerate such aggression,\" Netanyahu declared, calling the attempt a \"grave mistake.\" He vowed that Israel is prepared to retaliate for the recent string of attacks, including an Iranian missile barrage earlier this month. 💥
Heavy Strikes in Beirut
In Beirut's southern suburbs, Israeli forces carried out intense strikes on several locations, leaving thick plumes of smoke over the city into the evening. The military targeted \"a number of Hezbollah weapons storage facilities and a Hezbollah intelligence headquarters command center.\"
Residents reported the ground shaking and the sounds of explosions echoing through the neighborhoods. \"It was like a scene from an action movie,\" one local said.
Escalation with Hezbollah
Hezbollah and Israel have been exchanging fire since the war between Israel and Hamas began in Gaza last October. On Saturday alone, Hezbollah launched around 200 projectiles, according to the Israeli military.
Israel responded by destroying tunnel shafts and underground infrastructure in southern Lebanon. The death toll from Israeli airstrikes on Lebanon since the conflict began has reached 2,448, with injuries up to 11,471.
Crisis in Gaza
Meanwhile, in Gaza, where Israel has been fighting to root out the Palestinian militant group Hamas for over a year, medics and Hamas media reported at least 73 people killed across the enclave due to Israeli bombardments. The siege around three hospitals has tightened, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.
\"The situation is dire,\" a doctor in Gaza said. \"Hospitals are overwhelmed, and people have nowhere to go.\" 😔
Humanitarian Impact
The Israeli offensive in Gaza has displaced most of its 2.3 million inhabitants, caused widespread hunger, and destroyed hospitals and schools. International observers are expressing concern over the escalating humanitarian crisis.
Looking Ahead
As tensions rise, the region braces for further developments. The international community watches closely, hoping for de-escalation but fearing an intensification of the conflict.
Reference(s):
Israel pounds Beirut and Gaza after rockets hit Israel's north
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