Israeli forces carried out a large-scale aerial assault on Beirut, striking more than 100 targets within minutes, according to military officials. The operation took place just hours after a two-week ceasefire was announced between United States and Iran. Israeli leaders stated that while they supported the pause in operations involving Iran, it did not extend to their ongoing conflict with Hezbollah in Lebanon.
Lebanese authorities reported significant casualties following the strikes. The country’s Health Ministry said at least 182 people were killed and hundreds more injured, with numbers expected to rise as rescue teams continue searching through damaged areas. Emergency responders worked overnight to locate survivors, while hospitals called for urgent blood donations amid the surge in casualties.
The strikes impacted multiple locations, including densely populated neighborhoods, commercial districts, and areas near key infrastructure. Smoke was seen rising across Beirut and other regions such as the southern city of Tyre. Israel said the targets were linked to Hezbollah operations, describing the attacks as part of efforts to counter ongoing threats, including rocket and drone activity.
The escalation has raised concerns about the scope and interpretation of the ceasefire agreement. U.S. officials, including representatives from the White House, clarified that the deal applied only to direct U.S.-Iran actions and not to Israel’s military operations in Lebanon. However, differing interpretations among regional players have added to uncertainty, highlighting the fragile and complex nature of the broader conflict.