Israel struck a southern suburb of Beirut overnight, killing at least 14 people, amid ongoing talks in Washington. The attack comes a day after former President Donald Trump said Israel and Hezbollah would de-escalate tensions.
Attack Details
The Israeli military confirmed the strike on a Hezbollah target in the Dahiyeh district, a densely populated area. Lebanese officials reported that at least 14 people were killed and dozens wounded, with rescue operations ongoing.
Context of Violence
The strike follows months of cross-border fire between Israel and Hezbollah, which escalated after the October 7 Hamas attack. Despite international calls for restraint, violence continues to claim lives on both sides.
Reactions
Hezbollah vowed retaliation, while the Lebanese government condemned the attack as a violation of sovereignty. The U.S. State Department urged de-escalation but reiterated Israel's right to self-defense.
Trump's statement, made during a campaign rally, claimed progress in negotiations. However, no formal ceasefire has been announced.
Regional Impact
The attack threatens to destabilize Lebanon further, already reeling from economic crisis. The UN peacekeeping force, UNIFIL, called for restraint to prevent a wider war.
This incident marks one of the deadliest in Beirut since the 2006 war, raising fears of a new conflict.
