Israel initiated an assault on Beirut, the capital of Lebanon, on Friday, marking the first attack since a ceasefire agreement with the Hezbollah militant group concluded hostilities last November. Residents in Beirut reported hearing a massive explosion and observed smoke rising from the area previously declared as a target by the Israeli military.
Earlier in the day, Israel’s military urged residents of a Beirut suburb to evacuate, threatening retaliation for what it identified as rocket attacks originating from Lebanon aimed at northern Israel. Hezbollah denied any involvement in the rocket fire and accused Israel of fabricating excuses to maintain aggression against Lebanon. Since the ceasefire, Israel has been conducting near-daily operations targeting Hezbollah in southern Lebanon.
The United States and the United Nations have expressed concern over the situation. A spokesperson from the U.S. State Department called on Lebanon to take steps against militant groups within its borders, characterizing Israel’s actions as self-defense in response to terrorism from Lebanon. Meanwhile, the U.N. emphasized the importance of avoiding an escalation to a broader conflict.
The ongoing conflict in Gaza casts a shadow over the Eid al-Fitr holiday for Palestinians, who face a grim period instead of traditional celebrations. The war has stripped many of their homes and belongings, forcing reliance on charitable aid. Images from northern Gaza show bustling markets set amid ruins, reflecting the daily hardships faced by residents.
In related incidents, a volunteer for World Central Kitchen, a charity distributing meals in Gaza, was killed in an Israeli airstrike that injured six others. The organization reaffirmed its commitment to continue delivering aid despite the challenges. Previous airstrikes had already resulted in numerous fatalities among aid workers, leading some charities to reconsider their activities in the region.
In response to the attack on Beirut, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared the strike a demonstration of resolve against threats from the north. He emphasized Israel’s determination to enforce the ceasefire and prevent any attacks on its territory.
Additionally, tensions surged in the West Bank as Israeli settlers attacked Palestinian shepherds, resulting in injuries and hospitalization. Witnesses reported involvement by Israeli military forces during the attack, escalating the already tense situation in the area. Settler violence and military operations have caused significant casualties and displacement throughout the West Bank.
Amid these tensions, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun denounced the Israeli airstrike and condemned efforts to rekindle violence in Lebanon. He urged international allies to act swiftly to prevent further escalation. French President Emmanuel Macron echoed Aoun’s sentiments, condemning the Israeli strikes and calling for adherence to ceasefire agreements. France pledged to support Lebanon’s sovereignty and security.
Meanwhile, Lebanon’s Health Ministry reported that an Israeli strike on a southern village resulted in three deaths and multiple injuries, including women and children. The strike was part of the broader conflict exacerbated by allegations of rocket fire from Lebanon, which Hezbollah denies.
In Jerusalem, tens of thousands of Muslims gathered at Al Aqsa mosque for Ramadan prayers, marking the end of the holiday period peacefully despite the fraught political climate. Israeli authorities ensured a heavy police presence to maintain order as worshippers gathered in significant numbers.