Israeli jets carried out airstrikes in the southern coastal city of Tyre, Lebanon, on Wednesday, resulting in multiple buildings being hit and sending black smoke into the sky. The strikes came after Hezbollah confirmed that a top official, Hashem Safieddine, who was expected to be the group’s next leader, was killed in an Israeli strike.
The National News Agency reported that three people were killed in an Israeli strike in the nearby town of Maarakeh, while there were no reported casualties in Tyre. Prior to the strikes, the Israeli military had issued evacuation warnings to residents in the area.
Hezbollah responded to the Israeli strikes by firing rockets into Israel, prompting air raid sirens in Tel Aviv. These actions occurred as Secretary of State Antony Blinken was in the region attempting to renew cease-fire talks.
The Israeli military reported that more projectiles crossed from Lebanon into Israel on Wednesday night, with some being intercepted and others landing in open land. This exchange of fire comes amid escalating tensions between Israel and Hezbollah following the recent conflict triggered by a terrorist attack from Gaza.
Tyre, a historic city known for its ancient ruins and beaches, had largely been spared in previous conflicts between Israel and Hezbollah. However, the recent intensification of strikes in and around the city has raised concerns for residents and heritage sites.
The Israeli military issued evacuation warnings for dozens of buildings in Tyre, citing the presence of Hezbollah assets in the area. First responders helped residents evacuate, and there were no immediate reports of casualties.
Dr. Wissam Ghazal, a health official in Tyre, confirmed that the strikes resulted in casualties and damage to several buildings. Lebanon’s Health Ministry reported a growing death toll and number of wounded individuals as a result of the ongoing conflict.
On the Israeli side, Hezbollah attacks have led to casualties and forced thousands of people to flee their homes. The Israeli military has responded with arrests of suspected terrorists and operations to uproot Hamas militants in Gaza.
As the situation continues to escalate, international efforts to broker a cease-fire and provide humanitarian aid remain crucial. The impact of the conflict extends beyond the immediate battlegrounds, affecting civilian populations and vital infrastructure in both Lebanon and Israel.
