Hezbollah Joins Middle East War: Israel Strikes Beirut and Southern Lebanon

The conflict in the Middle East has escalated to a new level as the Israeli military has begun strikes on Lebanon's capital, Beirut, and the southern regions of the country. This surge in violence follows a major attack by the Tehran-backed group Hezbollah, which violated the November 2024 ceasefire agreement to launch its first large-scale offensive against Israel. The militants declared the move an act of revenge for the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei.

The Israeli military confirmed it conducted "high-precision" strikes against Hezbollah targets in Beirut and southern Lebanon. Additionally, Israel ordered residents of approximately 50 settlements in southern and eastern Lebanon to evacuate their homes immediately. This directive has triggered a mass exodus from southern Lebanon, resulting in massive traffic gridlocks on major highways.

Lebanese authorities have expressed deep concern over the situation. Prime Minister Nawaf Salam condemned Hezbollah's actions as "irresponsible," stating that the move has pushed the country toward a major catastrophe. Meanwhile, Israel placed full responsibility for the escalation on the militant group. This intensification of regional hostilities follows the large-scale military operation launched by the U.S. and Israel against Iran.