Egypt Daily News – Israel has carried out extensive airstrikes on the southern suburb of Beirut in a major escalation, marking the most significant attack since the ceasefire agreement came into effect. The strikes have raised fears of renewed regional tensions.
The number of drone strikes launched by Israel on the area has risen to five, following a new strike shortly after the Israeli army issued evacuation orders for buildings in Hadath, Haret Hreik, and Burj al-Barajneh. These areas are reportedly suspected by Israel to host Hezbollah-operated drone manufacturing facilities.
Israeli media reported that the latest strike is the largest since the ceasefire agreement was implemented on November 27. The Israeli army has also placed its missile defense systems in northern Israel on high alert in anticipation of possible retaliation.
Channel 14 stated that the ongoing operations in Beirut’s southern suburb and Lebanon are being conducted in coordination with the United States. It also confirmed that Israeli drones are flying heavily over Lebanese airspace and urged residents in northern Israel to follow Home Front Command instructions.
Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, following directives from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, said the military launched the attack to destroy buildings believed to be used by Hezbollah for producing and storing drones in the southern suburb of Beirut.
Before the strike, the Israeli military stated that the targeted infrastructure was underground and used for drone production. It claimed Hezbollah has been expanding its drone manufacturing capabilities in preparation for a possible future war with Israel, and that the group’s aerial unit is working on producing thousands of drones with Iranian funding and support.
Separately, the Lebanese army earlier reported discovering a camouflaged surveillance device equipped with a camera in the outskirts of Yaroun, a village in the Bint Jbeil district of southern Lebanon. The device was dismantled by specialized army units.
According to Turkey’s Anadolu Agency, Israeli violations since the ceasefire began have resulted in at least 208 deaths and 501 injuries. Reports also indicate that there are around 500 Hezbollah weapon depots and sites south of the Litani River.
That region has long been considered a strategic stronghold for Hezbollah. The ceasefire agreement had called for the dismantling of Hezbollah’s military infrastructure in the area and a full Israeli withdrawal. However, Israel still maintains control over five strategic positions in southern Lebanon.
