IDF strikes Beirut amid Iranian missile barrage on Israel

Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have launched strikes against Hezbollah targets in Beirut early Wednesday, as Iran fired at least 180 missiles into Israel the night before. Explosions and fire lit up the Lebanese capital’s skyline as smoke billowed from the southern suburbs, where residents were urged to evacuate amid warnings of Israeli strikes.

The IDF’s Arabic spokesperson, Avichay Adraee, issued a stark warning on X, advising residents in Hezbollah-controlled areas to flee: “You are near facilities and interests belonging to Hezbollah.” The situation remains volatile, with fears that the strikes are only the beginning of broader regional conflict.

The Iranian missile strikes on Israel marked a significant escalation in the ongoing hostilities, which have been intensifying for weeks. Israel responded swiftly, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemning the attack as a “big mistake” and vowing retaliation. Netanyahu’s resolve was echoed by the IDF, which announced that despite the Iranian onslaught, its operational capacity remained fully intact.

IDF spokesperson Daniel Hagari stated, “The Air Force continues to operate fully, and tonight it will continue to strike in the Middle East powerfully, as has been happening throughout the past year.” Hagari also underscored Israel’s commitment to targeting Hezbollah’s leadership, adding, “Iran committed a serious act tonight, pushing the Middle East towards escalation. We will act at the time and place we decide.”

Also Read: Global Cybersecurity Forum kicks off Today in Riyadh

As Iran celebrated its missile barrage with pro-government rallies in Tehran, featuring Hezbollah and Lebanese flags, celebrations were also observed in parts of Gaza and the West Bank, a clear indication of the widespread support for the attack among Israel’s adversaries.

The Israeli strikes on Lebanon, which have killed over 1,000 people in the past two weeks according to Lebanon’s Health Ministry, followed earlier Israeli operations aimed at Hezbollah leadership. Israel has also launched limited ground incursions into southern Lebanon as Hezbollah continues firing rockets from across the border, exacerbating the already dire humanitarian situation in the region.

With both Iran and Israel hardening their stances and the casualties mounting, the Middle East seems poised for a deepening crisis as the world watches with bated breath.