In a widening conflict, Israel increased its airstrikes in Lebanon, hitting the capital city Beirut’s southern suburbs and a Palestinian refugee camp in the north for the first time. The attacks targeted both Hezbollah and Hamas fighters. The Israeli military said it killed two senior officials with Hamas’ military wing in Lebanon, where violence has escalated sharply.
Thousands of people, including Palestinian refugees, fled the conflict in Lebanon, while rallies were held around the world to mark the approaching anniversary of the start of the war in Gaza. Hezbollah, the strongest armed force in Lebanon, was firing rockets into Israel in support of the Palestinians. The organization was established by Iran and is considered a terrorist group by many countries.
Israel Intensifies Bombardment in Lebanon and Palestin (Image via Getty)
The conflict is the worst since Israel and Hezbollah fought a brief war in 2006. Israel has killed most of the top leadership of Iran-backed Hezbollah, including long-time leader Hassan Nasrallah. At least 1,400 Lebanese, including civilians, medics, and Hezbollah fighters, have been killed and 1.2 million have been driven from their homes in less than two weeks.
