Janice R. Andrews
Hezbollah launched a significant missile attack on Israel’s Ramat David airbase near Haifa early Sunday, retaliating against an Israeli airstrike in Beirut that claimed 37 lives, including a high-ranking Hezbollah commander. The militant group employed previously unused “Fadi 1 and Fadi 2” missiles, marking an escalation in their military capabilities.
The Israeli strike targeted a residential building in southern Beirut, killing Ibrahim Akil, a senior Hezbollah figure and commander of the elite Radwan Force, along with other key leaders. Israel claimed the attack was in response to earlier explosions targeting Hezbollah personnel.
Hezbollah’s retaliation caused minor injuries in Israel, with most rockets reportedly intercepted. The group vowed continued attacks until a ceasefire is reached between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. In response, Israel implemented new safety measures in northern regions and intensified its strikes on Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon.
The conflict has resulted in significant civilian casualties, with Lebanon’s health minister reporting seven women and three children among the dead in Beirut. The death toll is expected to rise as rescue operations continue.
This exchange marks the most severe fighting between Hezbollah and Israel since the 2006 Lebanon War, occurring amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza. The situation threatens to expand into a broader regional war, with both sides preparing for potential further escalation.
The U.S. has expressed support for Israel’s right to self-defense while calling for restraint. The death of Ibrahim Akil, wanted by the U.S. for his involvement in the 1983 U.S. Embassy bombing in Beirut, was praised by American officials.
As tensions continue to rise, the international community remains watchful of this volatile situation that could potentially lead to a wider conflict in the Middle East.
