A powerful Israeli airstrike on Saturday morning destroyed an eight-story residential building in the densely populated Basta district of central Beirut, Lebanon. The strike, carried out at around 04:00 local time (02:00 GMT), killed at least four people and injured more than 20 others, with the death toll expected to rise as rescue efforts continue.
The airstrike, which involved five missiles, caused massive destruction, reducing the building to rubble and creating a large crater. Emergency responders have been working tirelessly to search for survivors amid the debris while smoke continues to rise from the site. The building housed both residential and commercial units, raising concerns about the number of casualties in the densely packed neighborhood.
Lebanon’s National News Agency confirmed the building’s complete destruction and highlighted the grave impact on local residents. Lebanese health officials have reported four confirmed deaths so far, but ongoing rescue efforts may reveal more victims.
The Israeli military has not yet commented on the attack, leaving questions about whether the building was targeted for connections to Hezbollah or if the victims were primarily civilians. This airstrike is the latest in a series of Israeli actions against Hezbollah in Beirut amid escalating tensions between the two sides.
Rising Tensions Between Israel and Hezbollah
Hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah have intensified since September 2023, with Israel launching military operations targeting the group’s positions in Lebanon. These actions followed Hezbollah’s retaliatory rocket attacks on Israel, which came in response to a deadly Hamas assault on southern Israel in October 2023.
Israel’s ongoing campaign aims to weaken Hezbollah’s military capabilities and reduce the threat posed by the group, which is supported by Iran and maintains significant influence in Lebanon. However, the conflict has resulted in heavy casualties and widespread displacement on both sides. Over 3,500 people have died in Lebanon, with more than one million displaced, creating a severe humanitarian crisis.
Calls for Ceasefire Amid Escalating Violence
International efforts to mediate a ceasefire have so far been unsuccessful. US mediator Amos Hochstein recently visited both nations to negotiate an agreement, but no resolution has been reached. Meanwhile, the violence continues to devastate civilian populations, with hospitals and aid organizations struggling to manage the increasing need for care and shelter.
As the conflict enters its second year, the humanitarian toll deepens, and hopes for a diplomatic solution grow increasingly urgent.
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