Israeli Army Launches Over 300 Airstrikes in Lebanon Amid Escalating Tensions
BEIRUT – In a dramatic escalation of hostilities, the Israeli army has unleashed more than 300 airstrikes in Lebanon since early morning, marking the most intense bombardment since the conflict began on October 8.
Fighter jets have targeted regions and valleys between the towns of Ansar and Zrariyeh in Nabatieh, southern Lebanon, as reported by the state-run National News Agency (NNA). Other areas hit include Wa’ba, Jibchit, Sharqia, Al-Namiriyeh, the edges of Kfar Tebnit, Nabatiyeh El Faouqa, and Deir El Zahrani.
Airstrikes have also been reported in the vicinity of the Kfar Roummane-Midneh highway, the outskirts of Yohmor Al-Shaqif, Arnoun, Jabal Al-Tuffah, Jabal Al-Rihan, and the former Kfar Tebnit crossing point. Heavy bombardment has taken place in areas east of Tyre and the Litani River, particularly around Dlafy in southern Lebanon.
The Israeli attacks have triggered an exodus of hundreds of residents from Tyre and surrounding areas towards the city of Sidon, according to an Anadolu correspondent.
Caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati has strongly condemned the actions, accusing Israel of attempting to destroy Lebanese villages, towns, and natural landscapes.
Israeli military spokesman Daniel Hagari has warned that the army may target several Lebanese villages located up to 80 kilometers from the border, citing Hezbollah’s alleged plans to attack Israeli citizens.
Amidst the rising tensions, Hezbollah and Israel have been engaged in cross-border warfare following a deadly airstrike on Friday that claimed the lives of at least 45 people, including children and women, in Beirut’s southern suburb. Hezbollah has confirmed the deaths of 16 of its members, including senior leaders Ibrahim Aqil and Ahmed Wahbi, in the attack.
This recent wave of violence follows two rounds of explosions involving wireless communication devices across Lebanon, resulting in numerous casualties. While the Lebanese government and Hezbollah blame Israel for these incidents, Tel Aviv has refrained from confirming or denying any involvement.
Hezbollah and Israel’s clashes have intensified since the start of the Israeli war on Gaza, which has seen over 41,400 casualties, predominantly among women and children, following a cross-border attack by Hamas on October 7. — Agencies
