Media reports indicate that Iran plans to respond to a recent Israeli attack that targeted areas in southern Beirut. The Israeli military denies responsibility for damage to UNRWA offices, claiming that explosives placed by terrorists in the vicinity were the cause. Meanwhile, the U.S. is urging Israel to extend banking collaborations with Palestinians, warning of potential crises. Israeli airstrikes continue in Lebanon, with casualties reported, and Iran is reportedly preparing a counterattack using drones and ballistic missiles.
According to media reports, Iran is planning to respond to the recent Israeli attack. The Israeli military targeted locations in southern Beirut during the night. Follow the developments in our live blog.
Israel Rejects UNRWA Chief’s Claims
The Israeli military has issued a statement denying any responsibility for damage to the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) building. “The claim that IDF soldiers destroyed the UNRWA offices in Nur Shams is incorrect,” the statement from the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) read. “Terrorists placed explosives near the UNRWA offices, which were detonated in an attempt to harm IDF soldiers. These explosives likely caused damage to the building,” the IDF explained.
UNRWA chief Philippe Lazzarini had previously alleged that the Israeli army had used bulldozers to damage the office, rendering it unusable.
USA Calls for Extended Cooperation Between Israeli and Palestinian Banks
The United States has criticized Israel for a short extension of the exemption for cooperation between Israeli and Palestinian banks. According to the Israeli Finance Ministry, they plan to sign for another month after cabinet approval.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen warned that this could lead to another crisis by November 30. They highlighted increasing uncertainty for international banks, Israeli companies operating in the West Bank, and especially for Palestinians. They are urging Israel to extend banking relations for at least one year.
Austin and Gallant Discuss De-escalation Strategies
The Pentagon has confirmed a phone call between US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant discussing ways to de-escalate tensions in the region. Austin reportedly addressed Israel’s next steps to improve “catastrophic humanitarian conditions” in Gaza, as well as prospects for hostage releases and ceasefire agreements.
Despite mediation efforts, Israel’s attacks continue in eastern Lebanon.
Media Reports: Iran Plans New Attack on Israel
After the recent Israeli assault, reports indicate that the Iranian government is already planning a new counterstrike. An attack involving drones and ballistic missiles could potentially be launched from Iraq, according to the US news outlet Axios citing Israeli intelligence sources.
Israeli intelligence believes that the attack could occur before the upcoming US elections next Tuesday.
Israeli Airstrikes on Beirut
The Israeli military has resumed airstrikes in the southern suburbs of Beirut for the first time in nearly a week. At least eleven airstrikes hit the Dahieh district, according to Lebanese security sources. A reporter from the dpa news agency reported seeing plumes of black smoke rising from the area. The explosions were audible throughout much of the capital.
In the nearby Lebanon Mountain region, an apartment was reportedly struck by an Israeli drone, resulting in at least two fatalities, including a member of the Hezbollah militia. Just hours earlier, the Israeli military announced plans to strike Hezbollah facilities in the southern suburbs of Beirut. The forces released two maps indicating targets and urged residents to maintain at least a 500-meter distance from the buildings.
The mutual shelling in the Middle East continues unabated.
Live Updates from Thursday
Following the Hamas assault, an increasing number of Israelis are seeking German citizenship. Reports indicate that five individuals were killed in a rocket attack from Lebanon, according to Israeli media. Check our live blog for Thursday’s updates.
Stay updated on current developments in the Middle East in our live blog.
This topic was reported by Deutschlandfunk on October 31, 2024, at 11:00 AM.