The Israeli army has carried out airstrikes on Hezbollah strongholds in southern areas of the Lebanese capital, Beirut. The attack was carried out on Tuesday (November 12). Israel's defense minister has announced that there will be no ceasefire until certain targets are achieved. After this threat, the Israeli attack on southern Beirut has intensified since morning. British news agency Reuters reported this news.
On Tuesday morning, Israeli forces identified 12 locations and issued a warning message on social media. It informed the residents of those areas that they were located near Hezbollah installations and should evacuate immediately. In response to this attack, attack drones were sent from Lebanon to Israel. A drone hits a kindergarten yard. However, no casualties were reported as the children were evacuated to a safe place earlier.
Security sources said 15 buildings were completely destroyed in Tuesday's attack in southern Beirut. Residents have already fled the area as the area has been subjected to continuous attacks since last September. Video footage shared on social media showed a 10-story building collapsing after two missiles hit it, leaving debris scattered all around.
The year-old conflict between Israel and Iran-backed Hezbollah has re-intensified, following the escalation of the ongoing war in Gaza. Since September, Israel has launched heavy bombardments and deployed troops in several areas of southern Lebanon and border villages. Israel's military has killed top Hezbollah leaders. Besides, many areas were destroyed by raiding the border villages.
Israel's new defense minister, Israel Katz, met with military staff for the first time on Monday and said a ceasefire in Lebanon would only happen when Israel can ensure its own security and the war's objectives in Lebanon are achieved.
He stressed on disarming Hizbollah and moving them behind the Litani River and returning the residents of the northern region to their homes safely.
Israeli Foreign Minister Gidon Saar said the ceasefire talks have made some progress, but the war is not over. He pointed out that the main challenge of effective ceasefire will be proper implementation.
Hezbollah, on the other hand, has stated that they are ready for a long-term war.
