Tensions between Israel and Hezbollah reached new heights on Thursday as Israeli airstrikes targeted Hezbollah’s intelligence headquarters in Beirut’s Dahiye district, a stronghold of the Iran-backed group.
The attacks were part of an ongoing escalation in hostilities, with Israel ordering civilians to evacuate parts of the district prior to the strikes. The air raids reportedly focused on Hezbollah official Hashem Safieddine, seen as the likely successor to former leader Hassan Nasrallah, although Safieddine’s fate remains unclear.
In retaliation, Hezbollah launched missile strikes at Israeli military bases, including the Sakhnin and Nesher bases in Haifa. These developments follow a period of intense fighting, including Iran’s largest-ever missile attack on Israel in response to the deaths of both Nasrallah and Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh.
The conflict has claimed nearly 2,000 lives, with most casualties occurring in recent weeks. While the U.S. is actively involved in diplomatic efforts, President Joe Biden expressed hope that an all-out war could be avoided, although discussions are ongoing regarding potential Israeli strikes on Iranian oil facilities, which have already impacted global oil prices.
