Israeli air strikes target southern Beirut after Iran’s missile barrage on Israel
Smoke rises above Lebanon, following an Israeli strike, amid ongoing cross-border hostilities between Hezbollah and Israeli forces, as seen from Israel's border with Lebanon in northern Israel, May 5, 2024. (Reuters Photo)
Two Israeli air strikes hit the southern suburbs of Beirut early Wednesday, according to a Lebanese security source. The source, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, confirmed that the strikes targeted areas previously identified by the Israeli military as housing Hezbollah facilities.
Explosions were reported by AFP correspondents, with one being described as particularly loud. Smoke and flames were seen rising from the area, which has been a focal point of Israeli military action in recent weeks.
This latest round of strikes follows repeated attacks on the southern suburbs, a known stronghold for Hezbollah. Israel has claimed its military operations are aimed at targeting the militant group, which has seen increased scrutiny and aggression from Israeli forces. Notably, a strike last week resulted in the death of Hezbollah’s chief, Hassan Nasrallah.
Israeli military spokesman Avichay Adraee issued a warning on social media platform X, urging residents to evacuate areas near Haret Hreik. “You are located near dangerous Hezbollah facilities, which the IDF (Israeli Defense Forces) will act against with force in the near future,” he stated.
