Netanyahu orders Beirut strikes; thousands flee city

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered strikes on the southern suburbs of Beirut, a key stronghold of the Iran-backed Shiite movement Hezbollah. The decision escalates the conflict between Israel and the Lebanese group, raising concerns about the fragile April ceasefire negotiated by Washington.

Israeli authorities stated the strikes are aimed at "terrorist objectives" in the Dahieh neighborhood, which they consider Hezbollah's operational and political center in the Lebanese capital. Netanyahu justified the operation by citing attacks on Israeli civilians and repeated violations of the ceasefire agreement.

In response to Israeli threats, thousands of Lebanese civilians have rapidly evacuated Beirut. Arab media have published images showing heavy traffic jams on roads leading out of Dahieh as residents flee the area. The offensive has expanded into southern Lebanon, with Israeli forces reportedly crossing the Litani River and capturing Beaufort Castle, a strategically important medieval fortification.

Defense Minister Israel Katz declared the operation far from over, emphasizing Israel's goal to decisively degrade Hezbollah's military capabilities. Meanwhile, the U.S. administration is attempting to de-escalate the situation through diplomatic channels. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has engaged with both Netanyahu and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, proposing a gradual de-escalation mechanism. This plan involves Lebanese authorities pressuring Hezbollah to halt attacks on Israel in exchange for Israel avoiding further operations in Beirut.

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We are determined to destroy Hezbollah's power.