Israel Strikes Beirut Amid Rising Tensions
Beirut, Lebanon – October 3
In the early hours of Thursday, Israel launched airstrikes on central Beirut, resulting in the deaths of at least six people and injuring eight others, according to Lebanese officials. This attack follows Iran’s missile strike on Israel, prompting the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) to deploy new ground forces into southern Lebanon.
Military Operations and Targets
The IDF reported that its soldiers, supported by aircraft, targeted and dismantled terrorist infrastructure in southern Lebanon using precision-guided munitions. A significant target was a multi-storied building in the Bachoura area of Beirut, housing a Hezbollah-affiliated health center. This marked the first Israeli strike in central Beirut, close to Lebanon’s parliament.
Additional airstrikes targeted the southern suburb of Dahiyeh in Beirut. These actions are part of ‘Operation Northern Arrow,’ a military campaign involving ground forces, air support, and artillery, aimed at dismantling Hezbollah’s infrastructure.
Casualties and Reactions
Lebanon’s health ministry reported 46 deaths and 85 injuries from Israeli bombings in the past 24 hours. The IDF’s operations follow the loss of eight Israeli soldiers in southern Lebanon, marking the first casualties since the ground operations began.
In response to the escalating conflict, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed retaliation against Iran, which had launched a missile attack after the assassination of Hezbollah’s Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah and Hamas political chief Ismail Haniyeh. The United States expressed strong support for Israel, with President Joe Biden affirming the US’s backing.
Doubts Revealed
Israel -: Israel is a country in the Middle East, located on the eastern shore of the Mediterranean Sea. It is known for its historical and religious significance.
Beirut -: Beirut is the capital city of Lebanon, a country in the Middle East. It is known for its rich history and cultural diversity.
Hezbollah -: Hezbollah is a political and militant group based in Lebanon. It has significant influence in Lebanese politics and is considered a terrorist organization by some countries.
Iran -: Iran is a country in the Middle East, known for its rich history and culture. It has a complex relationship with many countries, including Israel.
Israel Defence Forces (IDF) -: The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) is the military force of Israel. It is responsible for defending the country and conducting military operations.
Operation Northern Arrow -: Operation Northern Arrow is the name given to a specific military operation conducted by Israel. It involved targeting Hezbollah infrastructure in Lebanon.
Netanyahu -: Benjamin Netanyahu is a political leader in Israel. He has served as the Prime Minister of Israel multiple times.
Biden -: Joe Biden is the President of the United States. He has expressed support for Israel in its conflicts.
