Recent airstrikes in Beirut have resulted in multiple casualties, with at least eleven confirmed deaths as rescue efforts continue. In the Gaza Strip, airstrikes and bombardments have killed at least 19 people, including children. Meanwhile, President Biden and President Macron are discussing a potential ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah. Israeli General Avi Bluth faced harassment from extremists in Hebron, highlighting ongoing tensions. Key military actions have also occurred near Beirut, with Hamas commanders reportedly killed.
Recent airstrikes in Beirut, Lebanon, have reportedly led to multiple casualties. US President Biden engaged in discussions with French President Macron regarding a potential ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah. Here are the latest updates on the situation.
Lebanese Civil Defense Reports Increased Casualties
The Lebanese Civil Defense has confirmed that at least eleven individuals lost their lives due to renewed Israeli strikes in Beirut. This number is expected to rise as rescue teams continue to sift through debris for survivors. Initial reports had indicated four deaths and over 20 injuries.
An eight-story apartment building was severely damaged during the assault. Additionally, the southern port city of Tyre faced drone strikes, resulting in one fisherman’s death and another injury.
Gaza Strip Faces Heavy Casualties in Recent Strikes
The local Civil Defense authority, which operates under Hamas, reported that airstrikes and tank bombardments in the Gaza Strip have claimed at least 19 lives, including children. Over 40 individuals sustained injuries, according to spokesperson Mahmud Bassal, as reported by AFP. The Israeli Air Force executed three airstrikes, while tank fire targeted the city of Rafah in southern Gaza.
Independent verification of the ongoing conflict, shelling, and casualty figures from all involved parties remains challenging at this time.
Prosor Anticipates Growth of the Abraham Accords
Israel’s ambassador Ron Prosor expressed optimism about a potential easing of tensions in the Middle East under the forthcoming US administration led by Donald Trump. He stated, “I anticipate the expansion of the Abraham Accords,” referencing the agreements made during Trump’s first term aimed at normalizing relations between Israel and various Arab nations. Prosor noted that this model fosters direct interactions among peoples.
Reports of Casualties from Beirut Airstrike
In the recent airstrike on Beirut, media sources report that at least four individuals have died, with 23 others injured during the attack on a building in the Basta district, as per Al-Majadin television citing the Ministry of Health. An Al-Majadin correspondent mentioned that the structure was completely obliterated. The state news agency NNA reported that the Israeli Air Force targeted the eight-story building with five missiles.
Israeli General Faces Harassment in the West Bank
Major General Avi Bluth, the commander of Israeli Central Command, faced harassment from alleged Jewish extremists in Hebron, West Bank. Reports indicate he and several officers were insulted and obstructed. Five individuals were arrested by Israeli police following the incident.
During an annual pilgrimage to Hebron that attracted tens of thousands, the relationship between Jewish extremists and the military was highlighted, often marked by tensions and confrontations in the West Bank. During the pilgrimage, Major General Bluth was branded a “traitor,” as reported by The Times of Israel.
Biden and Macron Discuss Potential Ceasefire
President Joe Biden and President Emmanuel Macron of France engaged in discussions regarding a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon. They focused on efforts aimed at reaching a ceasefire agreement that would facilitate the safe return of individuals on both sides of the conflict. The White House announced these discussions on Friday, which also touched on the ongoing war in Ukraine.
Both leaders agreed to maintain ‘close coordination.’ Washington and Paris had previously proposed a ceasefire in Lebanon in late September, which did not materialize. However, their efforts for a ceasefire have since intensified.
Key Developments from Friday
According to sources from Lebanon, the Israeli military has once again struck targets near Beirut. Reports indicate that two Hamas commanders were killed in these operations.
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