Israeli warplanes launched a series of airstrikes on Wednesday, targeting Haret Hreik in the southern suburbs of Beirut, also known as Dahieh, after a brief period of calm. According to the Israeli army, the strikes hit a “strategic weapons depot” belonging to Hezbollah, marking an escalation in the ongoing conflict.
The Israeli military’s Arabic spokesman, Avichay Adraee, warned civilians in the area via X (formerly Twitter): “You are located near facilities and interests affiliated with Hezbollah, which the IDF will target in the near future.”
In addition to the strikes in Beirut, Israel carried out 11 air raids on the southern Lebanese city of Nabatiyeh and its surrounding areas. These strikes follow recent attacks that devastated the marketplace in Nabatiyeh. According to the region’s governor, Howaida Turk, the bombings formed a “belt of fire” around the city, causing casualties, though a precise toll was not immediately available.
The renewed attacks come just after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected calls for a ceasefire in Lebanon. In a conversation with French President Emmanuel Macron, Netanyahu made it clear that Israel would not agree to a ceasefire that leaves Hezbollah in proximity to Israel’s northern border. He insisted on the need for a buffer zone free of Hezbollah fighters to prevent the group from rearming and regrouping.
Hezbollah’s Response and Drone Activity
On the same day, Hezbollah launched approximately 50 projectiles toward northern Israel, with some intercepted by Israel’s defense systems. Hezbollah claimed responsibility for a large missile barrage targeting the town of Safed. There were no immediate reports of casualties from the attacks.
In retaliation, Hezbollah also announced the downing of two Israeli drones. The group’s air defense units claimed to have shot down an Israeli Hermes 450 drone, stating that it was seen “burning” in Israeli airspace.
This latest escalation highlights the intensifying conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, as both sides continue to exchange fire despite growing international pressure for a ceasefire.
