In what marks one of the most intense exchanges since the 2006 Israel-Hezbollah war, Israel launched a series of devastating airstrikes across Lebanon on Monday, leading to the highest single-day civilian death toll in nearly two decades. The operation, which Israel claims targeted Hezbollah infrastructure, has resulted in over 558 deaths, including more than 50 children and 94 women, according to Lebanon’s Health Minister Firass Abiad.
The strikes, part of what Israel has termed “Operation Northern Arrows,” aimed at diminishing Hezbollah’s military capabilities, included targeting a senior Hezbollah commander, Ibrahim Kobeissi, in Beirut. This operation reflects Israel’s aggressive stance towards Hezbollah, escalating tensions that have been simmering for months, intertwined with the broader regional conflicts, particularly the ongoing strife in Gaza.
The fierce bombardment has led to scenes of chaos and despair, with thousands fleeing southern Lebanon towards Beirut and other safer regions. Hospitals in southern Lebanon have been overwhelmed, prompting the Lebanese Health Ministry to request the postponement of non-urgent surgeries to manage the influx of wounded.
The international community has expressed alarm over the escalation. The United States, while urging its citizens to leave Lebanon due to safety concerns, has been working on diplomatic channels to de-escalate the situation. President Biden highlighted the importance of a ceasefire in Gaza to reduce regional tensions. Meanwhile, Qatar and France have called for urgent UN Security Council meetings, emphasizing the brink of broader conflict the region faces.
Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the actions as shifting the “balance of power” in the north, aiming to push Hezbollah away from the border and dismantle its military infrastructure.