The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) intensified their bombing campaign in Beirut early Sunday, with air raids causing a huge explosion in the Lebanese capital.
The strikes come as part of Israel’s ongoing military operation against Hezbollah, which has been launching rocket and mortar attacks into northern Israel.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to escalate the offensive, specifically targeting Hezbollah strongholds in Beirut’s southern suburbs.
Al Jazeera correspondent Laura Khan reported witnessing “an absolutely massive explosion” during the air raids, which continued into the night.
At least two strikes were confirmed, and videos circulating on social media showed a bright blaze followed by a powerful blast.
In a post on X the IDF confirmed that it was targeting Hezbollah positions in Beirut. The ongoing military operation, dubbed *Operation Northern Arrows*, has seen increased air and ground attacks since late September. According to Israeli officials, the goal is to secure northern Israel and enable the return of 70,000 residents who were displaced by Hezbollah’s cross-border attacks.
The conflict has taken a heavy toll on Lebanon, with more than 2,000 people killed and over 1.2 million displaced since the operation began, according to the Lebanese Health Ministry.
مشاهد لغارات إسرائيلية قوية ومكثفة على الضاحية الجنوبية لبيروت.. التفاصيل مع مراسل الجزيرة حمدي البكاري
#الأخبار #حرب_غزة pic.twitter.com/miLY4efxoo— قناة الجزيرة (@AJArabic) October 5, 2024
