The Israeli army struck the southern suburbs of Beirut after Hezbollah reportedly launched two munitions toward Israeli territory. The attack targeted two apartments in two separate buildings.
Although southern Beirut is considered one of Hezbollah's strongholds, it had experienced relatively fewer attacks in recent months. Nevertheless, the exchange of fire between Israel and Hezbollah continues despite ceasefire efforts.
Evacuation Warning from Israel
Israel later issued an evacuation warning for most of the city of Sidon and its surroundings in southern Lebanon. The coastal city has become home to many displaced people and is one of the areas frequently targeted by attacks.
According to local sources, the Red Cross and civil defense teams evacuated about 500 families from shelters used as schools, relocating them to the Christian neighborhood of the city. The warning did not cover this area.
Sirens Sound in Northern Israel
Sirens were also reported in northern Israel during the day, with the army announcing it had intercepted two munitions crossing from Lebanon into Israeli territory. Israel also stated that the launch platforms used in the attack were neutralized.
The office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the strike targeted a militant command center in the Dahiyeh area of Beirut. Lebanon's official news agency reported that two apartments in two buildings were hit.
Fragile Ceasefire
The ceasefire, expected to end hostilities between the parties, came into effect on April 17. However, it has not been fully implemented, with both sides accusing each other of violations.
This week in Washington, Lebanese and Israeli representatives reportedly discussed a conditional ceasefire that would grant the Lebanese army exclusive authority in certain pilot areas in exchange for Hezbollah halting fire and withdrawing from the border line. Hezbollah demanded Israel's complete withdrawal from Lebanese territory, while Israel warned it would strike southern Beirut if attacked in the north.
Rising Casualties in Lebanon
According to Lebanese officials, Israeli attacks the previous day killed at least five people, including members of the Lebanese army, one of whom was a general.
Near Sidon in the south, the bodies of three family members and a rescue worker were buried. Rescue worker Kassem Foani said their mission was to deliver bread to people and recounted that their group was struck by a drone on the way back.
The Lebanese Ministry of Health reported that at least 131 rescue workers have died in Israeli attacks during this conflict. The ministry stated that total casualties from Israel's extensive airstrikes and ground operations have exceeded 3,600.
