Israeli airstrikes kill 87 in northern Gaza as Beirut conflict intensifies

Israel’s military actions continue to escalate, with airstrikes killing at least 87 people in Beit Lahia, northern Gaza, according to reports from the Hamas-run health ministry. The ministry confirmed that over 40 others were injured during the attack, with many residents still trapped under collapsed buildings. The assault targeted a densely populated residential area, causing severe destruction. Local rescue teams have struggled to access the affected sites, complicating relief efforts.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) described the strike as a “precision operation” aimed at neutralizing Hamas operatives. Officials stressed that measures were taken to avoid civilian casualties, but footage from the site shows the destruction of multiple residential blocks. The IDF reiterated that their ongoing bombardment of northern Gaza aims to disrupt Hamas’s regrouping efforts.

Humanitarian Catastrophe Unfolds

The United Nations’ special coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, Tor Wennesland, expressed deep concern over the escalating violence, describing the scenes in northern Gaza as a “nightmare.” Wennesland warned that the humanitarian crisis is worsening, urging an immediate halt to military operations to safeguard civilian lives.

The crisis in Gaza is compounded by the restricted flow of humanitarian aid. International relief agencies and local authorities have highlighted severe shortages of medical supplies and food. Israel has denied blocking aid but acknowledged that delivery numbers have dropped significantly in comparison to previous months. U.N. humanitarian chief Joyce Msuya condemned the “atrocities,” stating that Palestinians in Gaza are experiencing “unspeakable horrors.”

Beirut: Hezbollah Targets Struck Amid Widening Conflict

In Lebanon, Israeli airstrikes targeted Hezbollah’s intelligence headquarters and an underground weapons facility in the southern suburbs of Beirut. The IDF confirmed that the strike, part of a broader campaign, aimed at eliminating key Hezbollah infrastructure. Despite warnings issued to local residents before the strike, reports indicate civilian casualties in the area.

Hezbollah, responding to Israel’s actions, launched over 160 rockets into northern Israel, further escalating the conflict. The Lebanese army reported that three soldiers were killed when an Israeli airstrike hit a military vehicle in Nabatieh. This attack marks a departure from Lebanon’s usual stance, as its army typically refrains from engaging directly in clashes between Hezbollah and Israel.

Regional Impact and Iran’s Involvement

Iran’s involvement in the conflict became more apparent as its Foreign Minister arrived in Beirut, signaling Tehran’s backing of its allies. Both Hezbollah and Hamas receive support from Iran, raising concerns of a broader regional conflict. The increased presence of Iranian officials and the military buildup in Lebanon indicate a potential escalation in hostilities, as Israel remains committed to dismantling Iran-backed militant networks.

Humanitarian Aid in Jeopardy

The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire, with aid deliveries reduced to critical levels. While Israel insists it is not deliberately blocking assistance, international organizations report minimal aid entering northern Gaza. The United States has urged Israel to improve access for aid organizations within 30 days, warning of potential consequences, including cuts in military aid.

The broader conflict continues to affect both Gaza and Lebanon, with significant civilian casualties and displacement reported. Experts warn that without immediate international intervention and a ceasefire, the humanitarian crisis could deepen, leading to further instability across the region.

Expert Insights: Worsening Regional Stability

A Middle Eastern affairs analyst, emphasized that the situation is escalating beyond a localized conflict. He noted that Hezbollah’s involvement and Iran’s overt support could transform the skirmishes into a broader regional war. The analyst highlighted that without a concerted diplomatic effort, the conflict could destabilize Lebanon further and draw in neighboring countries.