Israeli Military Issues Evacuation Orders: The Israeli army released new evacuation directives for Beirut’s southern suburbs last evening, followed by reports of loud explosions near the airport area.
Hezbollah Clashes with Israeli Forces: Hezbollah continues to engage in confrontations with Israeli troops along the Lebanon-Israel border during ground operations. The group stated that they confronted Israeli soldiers attempting to approach the village of Adaysseh.
Hospitals Damaged and Services Suspended: Three hospitals in Lebanon have halted operations due to damage from Israeli strikes. The Lebanese Prime Minister has appealed to the international community to pressure Israel into allowing rescue teams access to bombed sites.
Conflict Expands into Regional War: Israel is now fighting forces in both Palestine and Lebanon, which are part of the Iran-backed ‘Axis of Resistance.’ What began with Hamas’s attack on October 7 has escalated into a broader regional conflict.
Hamas’s ‘Al-Aqsa Flood’ Operation: On October 7, 2023, Hamas launched an attack called the ‘Al-Aqsa Flood,’ targeting Israeli border towns and igniting ongoing tensions. Subsequently, Lebanon’s Hezbollah, also supported by Iran, joined the war in support of Hamas.
Iran’s Supreme Leader Vows Continued Support: Ayatollah Khamenei declared that Iran’s allies will not back down, defending his country’s missile strikes on Israel. In a rare public sermon after leading Friday prayers, he asserted that Israel “will not last long.”
Israel Reports Significant Hezbollah Losses: The Israel Defense Forces claim to have eliminated over 2,000 military targets and 250 Hezbollah operatives, including more than a dozen commanders, during their operations inside Lebanon.
Intensified Airstrikes on Beirut: The Israeli Air Force has been conducting heavy airstrikes on Beirut and its suburbs over the past few weeks, reportedly causing significant impacts on Hezbollah’s infrastructure.
Escalation Following Iran’s Missile Attack: Iran’s missile salvo on Israel marked a major escalation in the conflict. Israel has vowed stronger retaliation, raising concerns that it may target Iran’s oil and nuclear facilities, which has already led to rising oil prices due to fears of supply disruptions.
International Reactions and Advice: U.S. President Joe Biden has advised Israel against striking Iran’s oil facilities. In contrast, former President Donald Trump, who is campaigning to return to the White House, has suggested that Israel should target Iran’s nuclear sites in response to the missile attacks.
