BEIRUT/WASHINGTON, Oct 16 (The Real Republic) – On Wednesday, Israel conducted an airstrike on the municipal headquarters in Nabatieh, a Hezbollah stronghold southern Lebanon, resulting in the death of the mayor and at least five others.
Lebanon’s Caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati condemned the airstrike, stating it “intentionally targeted a meeting of the municipal council to discuss the city’s service and relief situation.” This incident marks the most significant Israeli attack on a Lebanese state building since the offensive began two weeks ago, occurring despite U.S. concerns regarding the rising death toll and fears of a broader conflict in the region.
BREAKING:
— Visegrád 24 (@visegrad24) October 16, 2024
Heavy Israeli airstrikes against Hezbollah targets in Nabatieh in southern Lebanon.
It’s Lebanon’s 5th-largest city with around 100 000 inhabitants. pic.twitter.com/gCmFJOu3cO
The health ministry reported six fatalities, including the mayor, while Israel’s military claimed responsibility for striking numerous Hezbollah targets in the Nabatieh area and dismantling underground infrastructure. The Israeli Navy also participated in these operations, targeting various locations in southern Lebanon.
In response to recent tensions, Israel is confronting both Hezbollah in southern Lebanon and Hamas in Gaza, following an Iranian missile attack on October 1. Options under consideration include potential strikes on Iranian oil or nuclear facilities, although the likelihood of an attack on nuclear sites remains low, according to Iranian officials.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu:
— Vivid.🇮🇱 (@VividProwess) October 8, 2024
“Citizens of Lebanon: Free your country from Hezbollah so that future generations of Lebanese and Israeli children will no longer know war and bloodshed, but will finally live together in peace.” 🇱🇧🇮🇱
pic.twitter.com/szboJNj7co
Earlier on Wednesday, at least one Israeli airstrike hit Beirut’s southern suburbs. Witnesses reported two blasts and observed smoke rising from the areas struck. This airstrike followed an evacuation order issued by Israel.
Despite ongoing attacks, the prospect of a ceasefire appears bleak. Some Western nations have advocated for a cessation of hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah, as well as in Gaza. However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s administration has rejected such calls and remains committed to defeating Hamas and Hezbollah.
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