Tensions Escalate: Israeli Air Strikes on South Beirut Cause Mass Exodus of Civilians
Fresh Strikes Hit Southern Suburbs
Fresh air strikes hit the southern suburbs of the Lebanese capital Beirut today, according to AFPTV footage, following calls from the Israeli army for residents to evacuate the area. The strikes, which have been ongoing since Tuesday, have caused a mass exodus of civilians from the area, although some return during the day to check on their homes and businesses.
Warning Issued
Shortly before the morning attack, Israeli military spokesman Avichay Adraee posted on X a call for residents of the Haret Hreik suburb to evacuate. The post, which was written in Arabic, identified specific buildings and told residents to move at least 500m away from facilities and interests belonging to Hezbollah, which the Israeli military will be targeting in the near future.
Damage and Casualties
AFPTV video showed three plumes of smoke rising over buildings in the area this morning, and another around midday. Lebanon’s state-run National News Agency (NNA) reported that "the enemy" carried out three air raids in the morning, including one near Haret Hreik, which destroyed buildings and caused damage in the area. A separate raid was reported in the neighbourhood of Chiyah.
Escalating Conflict
The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah has been ongoing for almost a year, with both sides trading fire across the border. Since September 23, Israel has ramped up its air campaign in Lebanon, and later sent in ground troops. Lebanese authorities say that more than 3,440 people have been killed since October last year, when the conflict began.
Economic Impact
The conflict has also had a significant economic impact on Lebanon, with the country losing more than US$5 billion in economic losses. Actual structural damage amounts to billions more, according to the World Bank.
FAQs
- What is the current situation in Beirut?
The city is experiencing a mass exodus of civilians due to repeated Israeli air strikes on the southern suburbs. - What is the reason behind the Israeli air strikes?
The Israeli military is targeting facilities and interests belonging to Hezbollah, which it claims is a threat to its national security. - How many people have been killed in the conflict?
More than 3,440 people have been killed since October last year, when the conflict began. - What is the economic impact of the conflict?
The conflict has cost Lebanon more than US$5 billion in economic losses, with actual structural damage amounting to billions more.