Israel conducted airstrikes in Beirut targeting what it described as militant infrastructure, as the U.S. cautioned about potential attacks on universities in Lebanon amid ongoing conflicts in the Middle East. Israel’s military operations in southern Lebanon aimed at Hezbollah, an Iran-backed militant group, have resulted in the destruction of Lebanese villages near the border. The strikes in Beirut, particularly in the Hezbollah-controlled southern suburbs, prompted warnings for residents to evacuate as imminent attacks were expected.
Reports indicated that the airstrikes hit the southern suburbs of Beirut, with no immediate details on damage or casualties. Israel’s military stated that it was targeting terror infrastructure in Beirut without elaborating further. The conflict has led to a significant displacement of over a million individuals, with families fleeing the violence expressing exhaustion from continuous conflict.
The tensions escalated after Hezbollah’s attack on Israel in solidarity with Iran, following joint strikes by the U.S. and Israel on Iran. The conflict expanded with Iranian strikes on Israel, U.S. bases, and Gulf states. Iran issued warnings of retaliation against U.S. universities in the region after its own universities were targeted, prompting precautionary measures such as moving classes online.
Amid these developments, the U.S. embassy in Beirut raised concerns about potential attacks on universities in Lebanon by Iran and its aligned groups, urging U.S. citizens to leave the country. The ongoing conflict has resulted in significant casualties and displacement in Lebanon, with evacuation orders affecting a considerable portion of Lebanese territory. Despite the military operations and withdrawal of Lebanese troops from certain areas, some residents, including Lebanese Christians in border towns, have remained resolute in staying despite the risks.
Additionally, three peacekeepers from the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) were injured in an explosion near the border, following earlier fatalities among UNIFIL peacekeepers. Israel’s military did not immediately comment on the incident. The situation remains volatile, with ongoing clashes and security concerns in the region.