Lebanon prepared for another round of Israeli airstrikes for the second consecutive night. The bombardment in Beirut’s southern suburbs overnight on Wednesday marked the most significant display of firepower in the ongoing 12-day conflict triggered by the U.S. and Israel’s strike on Iran on February 28, leading to the assassination of Iran’s supreme leader.
Hezbollah, backed by Iran, retaliated by launching rockets into Israel two days later, reigniting a major conflict between Lebanon and Israel. In response, Israel initiated a fierce counter-offensive following a coordinated attack by Hezbollah and Iran, involving the firing of 200 rockets into Israel on Wednesday evening.
The conflict in Lebanon has been rapidly intensifying, spreading to various regions of the country. According to Khalil Helou, a retired Lebanese army brigadier-general and geopolitical analyst, the joint attack from Lebanon into Israel included a barrage of around 200 missiles and approximately 20 drones, indicating a unified mission.
With close to 700 casualties and an estimated 800,000 people displaced in Lebanon, the situation remains dire. Israel has issued expanded evacuation orders, significantly enlarging the “red zone” in southern Lebanon and deploying additional troops. The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) reiterated their commitment to escalating operations in the region.
Despite ongoing international efforts to mediate talks, the conflict shows no signs of abating. Lebanon’s government is struggling to assert control, with Hezbollah and Israel dictating the course of the war. The U.S., backing Israel in the conflict, perceives Hezbollah as a significant threat, indicating a lack of urgency for a ceasefire.
The escalating violence has shattered the illusion of safety in Beirut, with recent attacks breaching areas previously considered off-limits. The capital’s residents are on edge, anticipating further escalations and potential strikes across the country. The relentless violence has left Lebanon in turmoil, with little hope for an immediate resolution.