Israel renews strikes on Lebanon

The strikes come amid Israel’s ongoing campaign in southern Lebanon, including air and ground operations since March 2, when Hezbollah entered the conflict alongside Iran.

Attacks in Beirut and southern Lebanon

One Israeli strike in Beirut’s Jnah neighbourhood killed at least four people and injured 39, landing near a public hospital, according to the Lebanese health ministry. Another strike targeted a building previously warned by the Israeli military.

In southern Lebanon, an airstrike killed seven people in Kfar Hatta, including a family of six and a four-year-old girl. The Israeli army had issued an evacuation warning for the town. Israeli strikes have destroyed multiple homes and displaced over a million people since the conflict began.

Hezbollah response

Hezbollah claimed to have fired a cruise missile at an Israeli warship off the coast, though the Israeli military stated it was unaware of such an incident.

Masnaa border crossing closure

Israel had threatened the Masnaa border crossing with Syria, citing Hezbollah’s alleged military use and smuggling. Lebanese authorities evacuated the area, while Syrian officials temporarily suspended traffic, maintaining the crossing is used only for civilian purposes. Masnaa is a vital trade route for Lebanon and Syria.

Impact and humanitarian situation

Israeli attacks since the start of the war have killed more than 1,400 people, including 126 children. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun called for negotiations with Israel to prevent further destruction in the south, comparing the potential damage to that seen in Gaza.