Massive explosions have rocked Beirut, with reports of fighter jets heard over the Lebanese capital. Reuters reported a series of loud explosions near Beirut airport, with videos showing powerful strikes that seem even more prolonged and potent than previous attacks. A target of significant importance is speculated to be the aim of these strikes, with the latest target possibly being Hashem Safieddine, a likely successor to Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah, who was killed in an Israeli strike last week.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) also reported killing the head of the Hamas network in Tulkarm in a strike on the West Bank city, resulting in multiple deaths. Lebanon’s health ministry has stated that 37 people were killed and 151 wounded in Israeli strikes over the past 24 hours, with new strikes reported in Beirut’s southern suburbs.
The UN has urged respect for the rules of war between Israel and Hezbollah to protect civilians and infrastructure. Imran Riza, the UN’s humanitarian coordinator, described the situation in Lebanon as “truly catastrophic”, with over 1.2 million people displaced by Israeli attacks. The IDF claimed to have struck multiple weapons production and Hezbollah sites in Beirut but stated they took precautions to minimize civilian harm.
The escalating violence in the region has led to a significant loss of life and displacement, with fears and trauma among the population reaching extreme levels. The UN continues to advocate for the protection of civilians and access to those in need amid the ongoing conflict.
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