Israel Launches Intense Airstrikes on Southern Lebanon Amid Ongoing Conflict with Hezbollah

The Israeli military conducted strikes targeting Hezbollah militant positions in southern Lebanon on Thursday. A video circulating on social media shows crowds of people amidst dust-covered, damaged buildings in Tyre, one of Lebanon’s major cities. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) issued evacuation orders for residents living near the border, directing them to move north of the Zarani River, located approximately 40 kilometers from the Israel-Lebanon border, while warning of increased military action.

Both Israel and Hezbollah have accused each other of repeatedly violating the ceasefire that took effect on April 17. Hezbollah is a powerful Shia group backed by Iran. According to Lebanon’s official news agency, the National News Agency (NNA), Israeli forces carried out two airstrikes in Tyre on Thursday morning and another strike east of the city. Footage from Tyre from Wednesday night through Thursday morning shows multiple explosions and widespread fires, illuminating streets thick with smoke. Intense blazes erupted near tall residential buildings, with large plumes of smoke rising from the fires. Stunned local residents were observed inspecting debris scattered across the streets following the attacks.

Israel has asserted that its operations are specifically aimed at Hezbollah targets. Members of Hezbollah in Tyre reported that the situation is “extremely dangerous,” forcing rescue workers to halt their efforts, and that the Israeli military has warned workers by phone to evacuate the area. Amid concerns over further attacks, ambulance drivers were seen patrolling the streets urging civilians to relocate. On Wednesday night, while many were asleep, the Israeli forces issued exit orders from several locations, resulting in widespread displacement within the region.

The head of the International Committee of the Red Cross delegation in Lebanon warned of the fragile situation in southern Lebanon. “The ongoing conflict has created an untenable situation for civilians, with potential for lasting negative impacts,” said Agnes Dur. Lebanese officials accused Israel of breaching the ceasefire through its airstrikes. The escalating tensions pose a significant risk to the ongoing Israel-Iran talks being facilitated by the United States.