The Israeli military conducted heavy airstrikes on Hezbollah’s central headquarters in Beirut’s southern suburbs on Friday, marking a significant escalation in the year-long conflict between Israel and the Iran-backed militant group. The attack sent shockwaves through the Lebanese capital, with thick plumes of smoke visible across the city.
Israeli military spokesperson Daniel Hagari confirmed the operation in a televised statement, asserting that the targeted command center was deeply embedded within civilian areas. The strikes came shortly after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in a closely watched United Nations speech, vowed to continue attacks on Iranian-backed fighters in Lebanon.
Hezbollah’s al-Manar television reported that four buildings were destroyed in the multiple strikes, with numerous casualties. Security sources in Lebanon indicated that the attack targeted an area known to house top Hezbollah officials, making it the most severe assault on Beirut in nearly a year of ongoing hostilities.
