Israeli attacks on the Lebanese capital are increasingly becoming routine news, with recurring air strikes resulting in casualties and destruction that, until recently, were limited to Hezbollah's areas of influence in Beirut's southern suburbs. Israel claims to be targeting Hezbollah members sheltering among civilians in residential neighbourhoods. If true, this shows the blatant disregard for civilian life on the part of both Israel and Hezbollah.
Every night, the Lebanese go to sleep cautiously optimistic that a ceasefire agreement is within reach, only to be abruptly woken up by the sound of Israeli bombs falling around them. In Beirut's southern suburbs, Israeli army spokesperson Avichay Adraee issues warnings to evacuate buildings there that are already empty of civilians. But in central Beirut, the strikes come without warning and civilians are killed.
Since 8 October 2023, Israel has gone after Hezbollah members and leaders while maintaining its key focus on destroying Hamas in Gaza. But with the Strip pretty much decimated at this point, Israel has made Hezbollah in Lebanon its chief focus.
It began with the pager attack, which killed dozens and maimed thousands of Hezbollah operatives and bystanders. This was swiftly followed by the assassination of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah. Then, it invaded Lebanon's south, and reports now suggest that the Israeli army may be advancing towards the Litani River.
A few days ago, US envoy Amos Hochstein returned to Lebanon after receiving Hezbollah's response to the draft proposal. Following a meeting with Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, Hochstein stated, "The meeting was constructive, and we have a real opportunity to end the conflict." Berri echoed this sentiment, saying, "The situation is good, in principle," but clarified that "a few details" still needed to be ironed out.
