Israeli airstrikes targeted multiple locations in Lebanon’s capital Beirut early Monday after Iran-backed group Hezbollah fired dozens of missiles across the border into Israel, escalating tensions in West Asia.
Hezbollah Claims Missile Attack
Hezbollah issued a statement taking responsibility for launching missiles at Israeli military positions. The organisation said the attack was carried out in response to the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and repeated Israeli actions. Hezbollah described the strike as the beginning of retaliation and indicated that its response would continue if attacks persist.
Israeli Air Force Launches Counterstrikes
Shortly after the missile launches, Israel carried out a new series of airstrikes in Beirut. The Israeli military said it intercepted one missile in the air and that several others fell in open areas. It added that there were no immediate reports of injuries or major damage.
Evacuation Warning for 50 Villages
Israel urged residents of approximately 50 villages in Lebanon to move to safer locations in view of potential further strikes. The advisory indicated the possibility of continued military action. Military activity intensified on both sides of the border.
First Official Claim in Over a Year
This marked the first time in more than a year that Hezbollah officially claimed responsibility for an attack on Israel. The development has raised concerns of a broader conflict as military exchanges between the two sides continue.
