Israeli Airstrikes Destroy Home of Hezbollah Affiliate
Israeli fighter jets launched air raids on various areas in southern Lebanon, targeting the home of Jawad Nasrallah in Yahmar al-Shaqif, Nabatieh. Lebanese National News Agency (NNA) reported that the house was completely destroyed. Nasrallah, a relative of two Hezbollah members killed by Israeli forces, became the latest target in an ongoing escalation.
Wider Attacks in Tyre and Surrounding Areas
The air raid on Nasrallah’s home was accompanied by heavy artillery shelling in Tyre’s neighborhoods of al-Sharabik and Ras el Aarid. Further shelling extended to other towns, including al-Nabbou, al-Maasara, al-Tarash, and Shushba, as well as Arnoun and the vicinity of Qalaat al-Shaqif. The Lebanese agency reported visible destruction in these areas, and residents described moments of intense fear and distress.
Drones Spotted Across Southern Lebanon
Adding to the tension, four Israeli drones were observed flying over Yahmar Arnoun, Kfar Tebnit, Zawtar El Gharbiyeh, Zawtar El Charqiyeh, Mazraat al-Hamra, and Qalaat Arnoun. The presence of drones over these areas further unsettled local residents and raised concerns about potential additional strikes.
Diplomatic Efforts Falter Amid Ongoing Attacks
In a parallel development, U.S. envoys Amos Hochstein and Brett McGurk visited Israel, meeting with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. However, unlike previous visits, the U.S. representatives did not proceed to Lebanon. Analysts interpret this as a sign of stalled diplomacy, given Israel’s demand for security provisions that would allow it to act against Hezbollah even after a ceasefire. Lebanese officials and Hezbollah leaders strongly oppose these terms, viewing them as a concession to Israeli dominance.
Rocket Attacks and Sirens in Northern Israel
As air raids intensified in Lebanon, Israel reported incoming rockets from Lebanon. Around 10 rockets were detected crossing into Israel’s northern Galilee region, triggering sirens at 06:39 am local time. The Israeli military intercepted some of the rockets, while others landed in open fields, causing no casualties or property damage. This response highlights the precarious situation as both sides brace for potential escalations.
Thick Smoke Rises Over Beirut’s Southern Suburb
In Beirut’s southern suburb, smoke filled the air as residents witnessed nearly a dozen Israeli attacks on their neighborhoods. An atmosphere of unease prevailed, with black smoke marking the sites of recent shelling. Some neighborhoods have faced forced displacement orders, affecting nearly 700,000 residents. Many people have fled the area, but with shelters at capacity, some families remain, unable to find alternative shelter.
Forced Displacement Orders Add to Crisis
In the early morning, Israeli military forces issued fresh displacement orders, urging residents to evacuate within an hour. Displacement orders, particularly in the middle of the night, have left communities scrambling for safety. Most residents complied, but a significant number remain in the area due to the lack of available shelters. This marks the first strike on Beirut’s southern suburbs in a week, signaling a potential intensification of hostilities.
Interception of UAVs from Syria
The Israeli military also reported intercepting an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) launched from Syria overnight. According to Israeli sources, the UAV was neutralized before crossing into Israeli airspace. This incident highlights the complexity of the ongoing conflict, with multiple fronts potentially involved in the regional tensions.
Situation Remains Tense Amid Humanitarian Concerns
The air raids, artillery shelling, and forced displacement orders have left southern Lebanon in crisis, with rising humanitarian concerns. The Israeli air force and military remain on high alert as cross-border attacks continue, fueling fears of a broader conflict. Meanwhile, diplomatic avenues seem to have hit a dead end, leaving the situation in southern Lebanon and northern Israel dangerously unresolved.
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