Israeli airstrikes targeted central Beirut on Saturday, killing at least 20 people and wounding 66, according to Lebanon’s Health Ministry. This marks the fourth strike in the heart of Lebanon’s capital within a week, signaling an alarming escalation of the Israel-Hezbollah conflict.
The attacks came as U.S. envoy Amos Hochstein sought to mediate a ceasefire, but hostilities have intensified, spreading devastation across Lebanon.
The strikes in Beirut destroyed an eight-story residential building, leaving surrounding structures and vehicles heavily damaged. Separate drone strikes in Tyre killed two Palestinian refugees, highlighting the broad geographical reach of the violence.
Despite prior warnings from Israel, civilians remain at risk as many are forced to continue activities like fishing for survival. Other Lebanese towns, including Shmustar, Roumin, and Budai, have also suffered fatalities in ongoing airstrikes.
Ceasefire negotiations face significant obstacles, as both Israel and Lebanon hold conflicting positions on key terms. Proposed measures include a two-month truce, Israeli withdrawal, and enhanced border security by Lebanese troops and U.N. peacekeepers.
Beirut Airstrikes Escalate Conflict, Killing 20 Amid Stalled Ceasefire Talks and Regional Tensions
However, Israel demands stronger guarantees to disarm Hezbollah, while Lebanon and Hezbollah reject terms they view as undermining national sovereignty. Disagreements over the inclusion of monitoring nations further complicate talks.
The conflict’s toll extends to Gaza, where airstrikes have killed dozens, including women and children. Over 44,000 Palestinians have died during the 13-month war, according to health officials. The majority of Gaza’s population has been displaced multiple times, with dire living conditions in overcrowded camps.
The humanitarian situation worsens as international aid efforts face obstruction and widespread destruction continues.
In Jordan, a separate but related incident occurred when security forces killed a man who opened fire near the Israeli Embassy in Amman. The attack injured three police officers and underscores the heightened regional tensions. While Israel and Jordan maintain a peace agreement, the broader conflict has fueled unrest across neighboring countries.
The war’s origins trace back to a deadly Hamas-led incursion into Israel in October 2023, which killed 1,200 Israelis and resulted in ongoing retaliation. The conflict has since escalated into widespread destruction across Gaza and Lebanon, with no immediate resolution in sight as diplomatic efforts remain stalled amidst deep mistrust and continued violence.
