Deadliest Israeli Airstrike in a Year Escalates Hezbollah Conflict

At least 31 people died in an Israeli airstrike on a Beirut suburb on Friday, escalating the conflict with Hezbollah. The strike killed senior leaders and caused injuries to over 3,000. Tensions have risen with increased attacks, and international concerns have been voiced over the violence.

At least 31 people lost their lives in an Israeli airstrike targeting a Beirut suburb on Friday, a tragedy confirmed by the Lebanese health ministry on Saturday. The fatalities include three children and seven women, marking the deadliest strike in a year-long conflict between Hezbollah and Israel.

The attack intensified the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Iran-backed Hezbollah, which has already seen a death toll of 39 and over 3,000 injuries due to recent attacks on communications devices. Hezbollah identified 16 of the deceased as its members, including senior leader Ibrahim Aqil and another key commander, Ahmed Wahbi.

Hezbollah’s transport minister, Ali Hamieh, reported that 23 people remain missing amid efforts to rescue those trapped under debris. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated Israel's clear objectives in the conflict, while DEFENCE officials anticipated continued military operations.

(With inputs from agencies.)