In a dramatic escalation of tensions, Lebanon's Hezbollah fired heavy rocket barrages at Israel on Sunday after Israeli forces conducted powerful airstrikes in Beirut the previous day.
The Israeli military reported that at least 29 people were killed in the airstrike that targeted Hezbollah-controlled southern suburbs of Beirut. The intense bombardment coincided with signs of progress in U.S.-led ceasefire negotiations aimed at de-escalating the ongoing conflict sparked by the Gaza war.
Hezbollah retaliated by launching 250 rockets towards Israel, with many being intercepted by the Iron Dome defense system. Despite the interceptions, multiple rockets struck areas near Tel Aviv, resulting in minor injuries and damage to several homes.
Police reported multiple impact sites in Petah Tikvah, on the eastern side of Tel Aviv, where houses were destroyed or set alight. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed that a direct hit left some houses in flames and ruins.
The Israeli military declared its intention to target Hezbollah facilities in southern Beirut, following a warning on social media. Recent strikes have demolished apartment blocks and command centers embedded within civilian buildings, intensifying the conflict.
Amidst the chaos, over 1 million people have been uprooted in Lebanon since the offensive began in September. The conflict continues to destabilize the region, with the Lebanese army also suffering casualties from Israeli strikes.
Diplomatic efforts are underway to restore a ceasefire based on U.N. Security Council Resolution 1701. U.S. mediator Amos Hochstein highlighted progress in negotiations, while the European Union is poised to allocate 200 million euros to support the Lebanese army.
As the situation remains volatile, international leaders urge all parties to accept the U.S. ceasefire proposal and work towards lasting peace. The youth and communities affected by these events continue to hope for a swift resolution.
