Israel launched airstrikes on an area near downtown Beirut in the early hours of Thursday, according to security sources and witnesses. Residents of central Beirut reported hearing a massive explosion in the Bashoura neighborhood.
A source linked to Hezbollah stated that an Israeli airstrike targeted a Hezbollah-affiliated ambulance center in the heart of Beirut, referring to the attack on Bashoura. Reports indicated that the targeted building belonged to Hezbollah MP Amin Sherri.
The Lebanese Health Ministry confirmed that two people were killed and eleven injured in the Israeli airstrike on Bashoura.
Three Airstrikes on Beirut’s Southern Suburb
In addition to the Beirut strike, Israel launched three more airstrikes on Beirut’s southern suburb, targeting Maamoura, Americana, and Zaghloul neighborhoods. These strikes occurred in the early hours of Thursday, according to Sky News Arabia.
The southern suburb, a known stronghold of Hezbollah, has now been targeted three times in less than 24 hours. The Israeli military confirmed it carried out strikes on Beirut.
Evacuation Orders from the Israeli Army
The Israeli army issued an urgent evacuation notice for residents of the southern suburb, particularly those in the Haret Hreik neighborhood. The notice included a map and stated: “You are near Hezbollah facilities, which the army will target shortly.” It urged residents to evacuate immediately and move at least 500 meters away for their safety.
Casualties from Israeli Airstrikes
The Lebanese Health Ministry reported that 46 people were killed and 85 others injured due to Israeli airstrikes on Wednesday. The airstrikes targeted various areas in Lebanon, including southern towns, Nabatieh, the Bekaa Valley, Baalbek-Hermel, and Mount Lebanon.
The recent surge in Israeli airstrikes appears to target Hezbollah sites across Lebanon, as Israel intensifies its military actions in response to ongoing tensions.
