A recent air strike by Israeli forces on central Beirut has resulted in the deaths of at least 15 individuals, according to Lebanese officials. The assault targeted the densely populated Basta district, demolishing an eight-story building and sending shockwaves throughout the city.
The attack, which occurred without warning around 4:00 AM local time, involved a bunker buster bomb, a weapon previously used by Israel against senior Hezbollah figures. This suggests that a high-ranking official may have been the intended target, although neither the Israeli military nor Hezbollah has commented on this speculation.
Emergency responders worked tirelessly throughout the morning, using heavy machinery to sift through debris and recover bodies. The Lebanese health ministry reported that more than 60 people sustained injuries, with expectations that this number could rise as DNA identification processes continue on remains found at the site.
Residents expressed their shock and horror at the destruction. One local, Ali Nassar, described the explosion’s aftermath as chaotic, with debris littering his living space. He questioned the morality of targeting residential areas when civilians are likely to be impacted.
As tensions escalated, further strikes by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) were reported in Dahieh, a region known for its Hezbollah presence. Israeli air strikes have also reached southern Lebanon and the eastern Bekaa Valley—areas heavily associated with Hezbollah’s operations.
In recent weeks, Israel has ramped up its military campaign against Hezbollah amid international calls for a ceasefire. Negotiations aimed at resolving over a year of conflict appear to be gaining some traction. U.S. diplomat Amos Hochstein has engaged both Lebanese and Israeli officials to advance a proposed deal.
Discussions revolve around United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701, which seeks to ensure peace between Lebanon and Israel by withdrawing Hezbollah fighters from strategic areas along the border. A Western diplomat revealed that proposals currently on the table include a 60-day ceasefire, during which Israeli forces would retreat from southern Lebanon while allowing Lebanese military reinforcements in.
Despite some progress, disagreements linger over key aspects of this agreement, particularly concerning timelines for troop withdrawal and monitoring mechanisms. Notably, Hezbollah has indicated interest in negotiations but remains prepared for prolonged conflict if necessary.
The ongoing unrest has already claimed over 3,500 lives and displaced more than one million people in Lebanon alone. As both sides weigh their options amidst increasing casualties and international pressure for peace, the future remains uncertain but critical for regional stability.
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