Israel has intensified its strikes against Hezbollah in Lebanon, resulting in over 100 deaths on Sunday. At the same time, Israel expanded its operations by targeting Houthi forces in Yemen, raising concerns of a larger conflict in the Middle East.
Heavy Casualties in Lebanon
Lebanon’s health ministry reported that the Israeli airstrikes killed 105 people and injured 359 more on Sunday. The attacks followed Israel’s killing of Hassan Nasrallah, the leader of Hezbollah, two days earlier. Hezbollah has been engaging in cross-border attacks to support Hamas, which is fighting against Israel in Gaza.
Key Developments in the Lebanon-Israel Conflict
Deadly Air Raids: According to Lebanon’s health officials, the most severe attacks occurred near Sidon, as well as in eastern and southern regions, and the capital, Beirut. France confirmed the death of a second French national in Lebanon.
Airstrike on Central Beirut: For the first time since the Gaza conflict began, witnesses reported that Israel bombed central Beirut on Monday. The airstrike targeted a residential building, resulting in heavy civilian casualties.
Hezbollah Leadership Targeted: Israel’s attacks also claimed the life of Nabil Kaouk, Hezbollah’s deputy head of the Central Council, marking the seventh senior Hezbollah leader to die in a week. Additionally, senior commander Ali Karaki was killed alongside Nasrallah in Friday’s strike.
Worsening Humanitarian Crisis
The conflict has devastated Lebanon, with 1,030 people killed, including 156 women and 87 children, according to the Lebanese government. The war has displaced hundreds of thousands, with around 250,000 people now in shelters, and many more staying with relatives.
Israel Strikes in Yemen
Israel has also opened a new front by targeting Houthi forces in Yemen. The Israeli military confirmed airstrikes on power plants and sea-port facilities in Hodeida after a Houthi ballistic missile was fired at Ben Gurion Airport on Saturday, as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu arrived.
International Response
US President Joe Biden announced plans to speak with Netanyahu, warning against escalating the conflict into an all-out war across the Middle East. White House spokesman John Kirby stated that Israeli airstrikes had dismantled Hezbollah’s command structure, though he warned that the group might attempt to rebuild quickly. Kirby further emphasized that Nasrallah’s death makes the world a safer place.
The War’s Origins
The current conflict traces back to October 7 of last year, when Hamas launched a surprise attack on Israel, killing 1,205 people and taking 251 hostages. In retaliation, Israeli strikes on Gaza have resulted in the deaths of over 41,595 people, the majority being civilians, as reported by Gaza’s health ministry.
