Airstrikes by Israel hit central areas of Beirut despite a ceasefire agreement related to the conflict with Iran, with officials saying the truce did not apply to fighting in Lebanon.
Lebanon’s health ministry reported early estimates of dozens killed and hundreds injured after strikes hit densely populated commercial and residential neighborhoods without prior warning.
Israel said the attacks targeted positions of Hezbollah, an Iran-backed militant group, claiming more than 100 targets were struck within minutes.
Israeli officials accused Hezbollah of operating within civilian areas, while Lebanese officials and residents disputed those claims.
Lebanese leaders condemned the strikes, calling them a dangerous escalation and accusing Israel of striking civilian zones while diplomatic efforts were ongoing.
Israeli officials, meanwhile, said operations would continue to protect northern Israeli communities from missile fire.
The escalation comes amid a wider regional conflict that intensified after military actions involving the United States and Israel against Iran earlier in 2026, raising fears of broader instability across the Middle East.
The situation remains fluid as ceasefire negotiations and military operations continue simultaneously.
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Published: Apr 8, 2026. No major post-publication update has been logged.
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