After about a week of relative calm, Israeli Air Force jets conducted strikes on the Dahieh neighborhood of southern Beirut on Wednesday morning.
Witnesses reported hearing a significant explosion and seeing a plume of smoke rise from the area shortly after the attack, indicating the strike’s intensity.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) later confirmed that the strikes were aimed at strategic weapons belonging to Hezbollah, based on precise intelligence from the Military Intelligence Directorate. This intelligence-led approach highlights Israel’s ongoing efforts to counteract perceived threats from Hezbollah, which it designates as a terrorist organization.
The military emphasized that several precautions were taken to minimize potential harm to civilians during the operation, reflecting an awareness of the densely populated nature of the targeted area.
Approximately one hour before the attack, IDF Arab media spokesperson Avichay Adraee issued a warning, urging residents near a specific building in Haret Hreik to evacuate. This area is part of Dahieh, known for its strong Hezbollah presence. Adraee’s warning indicated that the structure was located close to Hezbollah facilities, emphasizing the urgency for residents to leave for their safety and that of their families.
In his message, Adraee shared a map detailing the area around the targeted building, instructing individuals within 500 meters to relocate. The map also indicated the proximity of the Marty Mahmoud Faid School, underscoring the challenge of conducting military operations in urban settings where civilian infrastructure is intermingled with military targets.
The military specified that the weapons were being stored in an underground facility, reinforcing the strategic nature of the strike. This operation marked a significant escalation in ongoing tensions in the region, as Israel continues to focus on disrupting Hezbollah’s military capabilities amid rising hostilities.
As the situation evolves, local and international observers will closely monitor the implications of these actions for stability in Lebanon and the broader region.