Israeli Airstrikes in Beirut Escalate Tensions with Hezbollah
Israel has pledged to enforce a ceasefire across Lebanon following rocket fire prompting airstrikes in Beirut. Lebanese leaders condemned the attacks, while Hezbollah disclaimed involvement. Israeli officials warn of continued responses, raising fears of renewed conflict as investigations into the rocket fire unfold.
On Friday, Israel announced it would enforce a ceasefire in all areas of Lebanon following a rocket attack that led to its bombings in Beirut. This marked the first strike on the Lebanese capital since a fragile ceasefire began with Hezbollah four months ago. In stark contrast, Lebanon’s Prime Minister Nawaf Salam termed the strike a “dangerous escalation,” while French President Emmanuel Macron condemned it as an “unacceptable” violation of the truce.
Despite the health ministry indicating that there were no casualties from the attack in Beirut, it reported five fatalities in southern Israel resulting from the strikes. This incident marks the second occurrence of rocket fire from Lebanon since the ceasefire, with Hezbollah denying any involvement both times. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated, “The equation has changed,” affirming that Israel would utilize force to maintain the ceasefire and combat any threats against the State.
Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz emphasized that “there will be no quiet in Beirut either” in response to attacks in northern Israel. Israel has been conducting airstrikes targeting what it claims are Hezbollah military installations in southern Lebanon since the ceasefire began. The military’s warning for residents to evacuate the southern suburbs preceded the attacks aimed particularly at a Hezbollah facility storing unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun, while speaking in Paris with Macron, mentioned that an investigation is necessary, asserting that there are indications “Hezbollah is not responsible” for the recent rocket fire. The destruction from the Israeli strike reportedly resulted in heavy damage, with an AFP photographer noting that a targeted building was completely razed, rising smoke visible against the sky.
Reports indicate that panic ensued in the densely populated areas following Israel’s warning, as residents sought to leave. Mohammed, a taxi driver, conveyed his anxiety, stating, “We’re very afraid the war will return.” The Israeli military reported that two projectiles were fired towards Israel, with one intercepted, while combat operations continued to target Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon.
Under the existing ceasefire terms, Israel was obligated to withdraw its troops from Lebanon by February 18 yet continues to maintain a military presence at five strategic locations. The agreement mandates Hezbollah’s withdrawal to the north of the Litani River to dismantle military structures in southern Lebanon. Prime Minister Salam urged swift action from his army chief to identify those responsible for the recent provocations threatening national stability.
In a press conference, Macron asserted his intention to consult with U.S. President Donald Trump regarding the situation. He firmly stated, “There is no activity that justifies such strikes.” Lebanon’s National News Agency reported additional attacks by Israel across the south, resulting in further casualties. UN special envoy Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert expressed deep concern over the escalation, urging all parties to exercise restraint to prevent rekindling a broader conflict.
The recent escalation in tensions between Israel and Hezbollah illustrates the fragile nature of the ongoing ceasefire in Lebanon. With airstrikes in Beirut marking a significant development, leaders in both nations call for investigations and restraint to avoid further conflict. As the regional situation remains precarious, effective dialogue and diplomatic interventions are essential to maintaining stability in the area.
Original Source: www.al-monitor.com
