Israeli warplanes launched heavy airstrikes on Monday night, targeting the areas of Lailaki, Marijeh, Rweiss, and Bir al-Abed in Beirut’s southern suburbs. The strikes also reached locations near Beirut’s international airport.
The Israeli airstrikes followed urgent evacuation warnings issued by the Israeli army, which called for the immediate clearance of several buildings in Beirut’s southern suburbs.
Evacuations in Southern Lebanon
In addition to the strikes on Beirut, the Israeli military ordered residents in several border towns in southern Lebanon to evacuate. Strict instructions were also given to residents of Israel’s Upper Galilee to stay close to protected areas.
The Israeli government’s security cabinet officially approved a “limited” ground operation in Lebanon. In preparation for this, Israeli forces conducted artillery shelling ahead of a potential ground invasion into Lebanon’s border areas.
Airstrikes in Southern Lebanon
On Monday night, Israeli air raids targeted towns in southern Lebanon, including Blida, Ainata, Bint Jbeil, Tiri, and Kounine. These towns are known for their proximity to the border and their historical role in regional conflicts.
Israeli Defense Minister’s Statement
Israel’s Defense Minister, Yoav Gallant, addressed local leaders in northern Israel, stating that the next phase of the war along Lebanon’s southern border would begin soon. This phase aims to return Israeli citizens who fled from Hezbollah’s missile attacks during a year-long border conflict.
Gallant emphasized, “We will use all necessary means—your forces and others, by land, sea, and air. Good luck.”
Hezbollah’s Response
Late on Monday night, Hezbollah announced that it had targeted movements of Israeli soldiers in the orchards facing the Lebanese towns of Adaisseh and Kfarkila, situated in southern Lebanon. This marked another escalation in the ongoing hostilities between Hezbollah and Israel.
