On November 15, 2024, Beirut's southern suburbs were rocked by significant airstrikes attributed to Israeli forces, resulting in the collapse of several buildings and causing widespread panic. The targeted area, particularly Ghobeiry, known as a Hezbollah stronghold, witnessed moments of terror as plumes of smoke and dust rose high above the city's skyline.
A pre-strike warning from the Israeli military called on residents to evacuate the southern suburbs, particularly those near facilities linked to Hezbollah. "All residents... you are located near facilities and interests affiliated with Hezbollah. For your safety and the safety of your family members, you must evacuate these buildings and those adjacent to them immediately," urged Israeli army spokesman Avichay Adraee in his social media message.
Shortly after the evacuation order, eyewitnesses reported seeing projectiles slam down on structures, leading to massive explosions and the destruction of residential buildings. Graphic images from the scene captured intense fireballs erupting as Israeli missiles targeted the Ghobeiry neighborhood, shaking the very souls of residents who fled their homes.
Lebanon's National News Agency (NNA) described the airstrikes as part of what they labeled as "heavy raids carried out by aircraft of the Israeli enemy." Initial reports cited the strike of at least two missiles by Israeli drones before the air force moved to level buildings near municipal offices.
The airstrikes followed heavy bombardments earlier in the week, which increased the intensity of Israel's air campaign against Hezbollah, coinciding with diplomatic efforts for peace. The recent spate of violence is regarded as Israel's most aggressive military action against southern Beirut since the renewed fighting began, increasing the death toll and humanitarian crisis for Lebanon.
Health officials reported severe casualties, indicating the dire state of affairs as bombings echoed through the capital. This week's escalation has seen at least 3,380 people reported dead due to the conflict, with the economic impacts reaching upwards of $5 billion for Lebanon.
The destruction led to mass evacuations, and imagery captured by journalists illustrated the chaos enveloping the areas closest to the airstrikes. The bombardments are part of Israel's broader strategy to target what they identify as military facilities belonging to Hezbollah. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) assert it has targeted more than 120 sites across Lebanon, including command centers utilized by Hezbollah's elite Radwan Force.
This recent confrontation, marked by airstrikes and military warnings, reflects the faltering diplomacy and increasing military tensions fueling the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. Despite the urgent calls for evacuation and the dire humanitarian situation facing civilians, many residents have returned to obtain possessions and assess the damages incurred by the attacks.
The situation remains fluid, as Israel continues to assert its military actions are necessary for national security, viewing Hezbollah's military presence as a direct threat to its safety. On the other hand, Lebanon is vocal about the humanitarian and economic fallout of continued military conflict, with leaders calling for immediate international intervention.
All the developments coincided with diplomatic efforts by the United States to broker peace, as recent proposals for ceasefires and discussions involving both Israel and Hezbollah have surfaced. Nevertheless, the violence persists as military operations rage on, impacting innocent lives caught within the crossfire.
