The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have launched over 1,600 airstrikes across Lebanon in the past day, marking the most destructive military campaign in the region in over two decades. The strikes primarily targeted Hezbollah sites, including the group’s headquarters in southern Beirut, following the confirmation of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah’s death in an Israeli airstrike on Friday.
The extensive bombardment has resulted in widespread destruction and significant civilian casualties. According to Lebanon’s health ministry, at least 92 people have been killed and 153 injured in the latest wave of attacks, with reports indicating that the death toll could rise as rescue operations continue. The strikes have levelled multiple high-rise apartment buildings, displacing thousands of residents and forcing many to flee their homes.
Hezbollah has vowed to continue its confrontation with Israel amid this intensifying violence. In a statement released after Nasrallah’s death, the group declared that it would not back down from its “holy struggle” against Israeli aggression. The loss of Nasrallah, who had led Hezbollah for over three decades, is seen as a significant blow to the organization, but it has pledged to honour his legacy through continued resistance.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the United Nations General Assembly shortly before the airstrikes, asserting that Israel would persist in its military campaign against Hezbollah until it achieves its objectives. “If you strike us, we will strike you,” he warned, reinforcing Israel’s commitment to neutralizing threats from militant groups operating along its borders.
The recent escalation has drawn international concern, with calls for a ceasefire and diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions. However, Israel has rejected proposals for a temporary halt in hostilities, insisting that military operations will continue until Hezbollah’s capabilities are significantly degraded.
Regional powers are closely monitoring developments, fearing that this conflict could spiral into a broader war involving multiple actors across the Middle East. The humanitarian impact of these strikes is already being felt, with reports of families fleeing to safety and hospitals overwhelmed by casualties.
