Rising Tensions: Israeli Airstrikes Target Senior Hezbollah Commander

An Israeli airstrike killed a senior Hezbollah commander in Beirut, escalating fears of a full-scale war in the Middle East. Israel's offensive has resulted in significant casualties and displacement in Lebanon. The United States is urged to intervene diplomatically to prevent further destabilization.

An Israeli airstrike in Beirut took the life of a senior Hezbollah commander on Tuesday, intensifying fears of an all-out war in the Middle East. As cross-border rocket exchanges escalated, Lebanon called on Washington to help de-escalate the conflict. Israel's military claimed that Ibrahim Qubaisi, head of Hezbollah's missile and rocket force, was killed in the strike, a fact corroborated by two security sources from Lebanon.

Since Monday morning, Israeli offensives have killed 569 people, including 50 children, and injured 1,835 individuals in Lebanon. Lebanese Health Minister Firass Abiad conveyed these grim statistics to Al Jazeera Mubasher TV. Thousands of refugees fleeing southern Lebanon have sought temporary shelter in schools and other facilities.

At Beirut's Technical Institute of Bir Hassan, volunteers supplied water, medicine, and other essentials for displaced citizens. The living conditions are harsh, as described by 84-year-old Atef Ahmad Darwich who stood by a makeshift sleeping area. Children like 11-month-old Matila were seen sleeping on mattresses, while others tried to pass time by scribbling on whiteboards. "It's a lot of pressure for grownups and children. They're exhausted and stressed," said 50-year-old Rima Ali Chahine, highlighting the severe living conditions the children are facing.

The U.N. Security Council is slated to meet on Wednesday to address the rising conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. The current escalation has stoked fears that nearly a year of conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza could further destabilize the region. With Hezbollah launching rockets in support of Hamas, U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres voiced concerns, stating, "Lebanon cannot afford to become another Gaza." Meanwhile, U.S. President Joe Biden called for a diplomatic solution at the U.N. General Assembly, emphasizing that a full-scale war benefits no one.

Lebanese Foreign Minister Abdallah Bou Habib expressed disappointment with Biden's address, highlighting the U.S. as the only country capable of making a difference in the Middle East. Lebanon estimates half a million people have been displaced. Bou Habib said the Lebanese Prime Minister aims to meet with U.S. officials soon.

The U.S. has worked with mediators Qatar and Egypt to negotiate a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, but efforts have so far been unsuccessful. Israel's military continues its extensive strikes on Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon. Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant stated that Hezbollah has suffered significant setbacks.

In response, Hezbollah launched retaliatory attacks on Israeli military bases. Suspected Israeli missiles also targeted Syria's Tartous city, intercepted by Syrian defenses. Iran-backed groups remain the focus of Israel's intensified air campaign since the Gaza conflict began. Meanwhile, funerals were held for those killed in Lebanon by Israeli bombardment. In Saksakiyeh, Mohammed Helal mourned his daughter Jouri with defiance against Hezbollah's enemies.

(With inputs from agencies.)