**Beirut, Lebanon** – Israeli fighter jets conducted multiple airstrikes near Rafic Hariri International Airport in Beirut late last night, escalating tensions in the region. The Israeli Air Force targeted several key locations close to the airport, allegedly striking a Hezbollah-affiliated charity branch.
According to local reports, the bombings were aimed at the Karz-ı Hasen Foundation, a financial institution tied to Hezbollah. The foundation has been accused of financing Hezbollah’s activities, which Israel claims are directed against its national security.
In a statement released earlier, Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) spokesperson Avichay Adraee confirmed that the strikes were aimed at Hezbollah targets in Lebanon. “We will continue to target entities that finance Hezbollah’s activities against Israel,” Adraee declared, referencing the Karz-ı Hasen institution.
The airstrikes have sparked widespread concern, with fears of a potential escalation in violence between Israel and Hezbollah. While no official reports of casualties have been released, local authorities are assessing the damage in the affected areas.
Lebanese government officials have condemned the airstrikes, calling them a violation of Lebanon’s sovereignty and international law. The international community is closely monitoring the situation, with calls for restraint on both sides to avoid further conflict.
Background
Hezbollah, a Shiite militant group based in Lebanon, has been a longstanding adversary of Israel. The group is heavily involved in Lebanon’s political and military landscape, and tensions between Israel and Hezbollah have persisted for decades. Israel views Hezbollah’s growing influence and military capabilities as a direct threat to its security.
Regional Impact
The recent airstrikes come amid heightened tensions in the Middle East, with ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Syria adding to the region’s volatility. Experts warn that any further escalation between Israel and Hezbollah could have significant ramifications for the stability of Lebanon and the broader Middle East.
International Reactions
International bodies, including the United Nations, have urged restraint from both Israel and Hezbollah to avoid further escalation. Neighboring countries are also concerned about the potential spillover of violence across borders, particularly into Syria and Iraq.
As the situation develops, both sides remain on high alert, with no immediate signs of de-escalation.
