Israeli Airstrike Targets Hezbollah in Central Beirut
Attack on Building in Basta District
Early on Friday morning, an Israeli airstrike hit a building in the Basta district of central Beirut, resulting in the deaths of at least 11 people and leaving several others injured, according to Lebanese officials. The strike, which reportedly used bunker-buster bombs, created a massive crater and destroyed the eight-story structure. The attack is believed to have been aimed at a high-ranking Hezbollah leader, Muhammad Haydar, although his fate remains uncertain. The airstrike is part of a broader series of Israeli military actions targeting Hezbollah in Lebanon.
Targeted Leader: Muhammad Haydar
While Haydar’s role within Hezbollah remains somewhat ambiguous, reports suggest he has been a key figure in the group’s military operations following the death of Hezbollah’s leader, Hassan Nasrallah, in recent months. Haydar, a former advisor to Nasrallah, has reportedly been involved in planning major Hezbollah operations. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have not confirmed whether Haydar was among those killed in the attack.
Rocket Barrage and Retaliatory Strikes
The airstrike on Beirut came in conjunction with a rocket barrage launched from Lebanon, which triggered sirens in Haifa and surrounding areas in northern Israel. While Israel’s air defense systems intercepted several rockets, one rocket struck an industrial area in the Kiryat Ata suburb of Haifa, causing minor damage but no casualties. This event highlights the ongoing escalation between Israel and Hezbollah, with both sides continuing to target military infrastructure.
Escalation in the Israel-Hezbollah Conflict
This airstrike represents the latest escalation in the Israel-Hezbollah conflict, where hostilities have intensified in recent weeks. The IDF has focused on targeting Hezbollah’s military infrastructure in Lebanon, while Hezbollah has consistently launched rocket attacks into northern Israel. This tit-for-tat violence reflects the broader regional tensions, especially as both groups are engaged in various fronts, including ongoing efforts related to Gaza.
Drone Strike in Tyre, Lebanon
In a separate incident on Saturday, a drone strike in the southern Lebanese city of Tyre killed one person and injured another. Local reports suggest the victims were fishermen, though some sources indicate that the attack may have been aimed at Hezbollah operatives. The strike comes amid continued ground fighting in southern Lebanon, where Israeli forces are engaged in operations targeting Hezbollah positions.
Impact and Ongoing Tensions
As the situation continues to evolve, tensions remain high in the region. Both military and civilian casualties continue to mount as the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah shows no sign of de-escalating. With both sides escalating their military actions, the prospects for a peaceful resolution seem increasingly uncertain.
