The southern suburbs of Beirut witnessed a very violent night as Israel conducted nearly 17 strikes in the early hours of Wednesday. The Israeli military had prompted panic among the population after issuing numerous orders to evacuate buildings in Beirut, claiming that it was targeting Hezbollah sites.
The strikes came hours after Iran launched a barrage of ballistic missiles against targets in Israel.
One of the strikes hit the area known as the Semaan Gallery.
Meanwhile, Benjamin Netanyahu told a meeting of his security cabinet that “Iran made a big mistake – and it will pay.”
In the early hours of Wednesday, smoke was still rising over the southern suburbs.
Calls for a Ceasefire
Amidst escalating tensions, calls for a ceasefire have been reiterated by the UN and EU. The UN Security Council is scheduled to convene on Wednesday to address the situation.
France’s Support
French President Emmanuel Macron condemned Iran’s actions and emphasized France’s commitment to leveraging military resources in the Middle East to counter the perceived Iranian threat. Additionally, Macron expressed solidarity with Lebanon, urging Israel to cease military operations promptly to prevent further civilian casualties and uphold Lebanon’s sovereignty in accordance with UN Security Council Resolution 1701.
“France will be at the side of all those who take action in this direction and will very soon be organizing a conference in support of the Lebanese people and their institutions.”
South Lebanon
The Israeli air force launched a series of air strikes on Khiam early on Wednesday morning. Bombing raids are also continuing on Kafra, Nabatiyeh and Marjayoun.
Throughout the night, artillery bombardments targeted Khiam, Kafra, Mais al-Jabal, Yaroun, Maroun al-Ras, Aitaroun and Blida.
Shortly after midnight, the Israeli air force launched a major air offensive on the Nabatiyeh region.
Moreover, Hezbollah claimed to have launched missiles at Israeli forces stationed at the Shomera barracks.
As for the Israeli media, they spoke of an “unusual event in the north,” saying, “The wounded are being evacuated to the border by helicopters and attacks are being carried out by helicopters and tanks in the region to provide cover for our forces.”
The Ministry of Health confirmed 55 fatalities and 156 injuries resulting from Israeli airstrikes on Tuesday.
