Israeli air strikes on central Beirut have left at least six dead, contributing to a total of 46 casualties across Lebanon in the past day. The UN Security Council discussed the need for de-escalation while Lebanon called for adherence to a 2006 resolution for a demilitarized zone. Tensions escalate as Israel’s foreign minister bans the UN Secretary-General from the country, while explosive sounds continue to disrupt life in Beirut.
At least six individuals have lost their lives in Israeli air strikes that targeted central Beirut, following a significant escalation of violence in Lebanon, which has resulted in a total of 46 fatalities over the past 24 hours, according to the Health Ministry. These strikes occurred during a night of turmoil within the region, prompting an emergency session of the United Nations Security Council where the Secretary-General emphasized the urgent necessity for de-escalation. In the prolonged meeting, representatives from Iran and Israel defended their respective actions, while Lebanon advocated for adherence to a 2006 UN Security Council resolution that calls for a demilitarized buffer zone in southern Lebanon. Furthermore, Israel’s foreign minister labeled Secretary-General Antonio Guterres as persona non grata, effectively prohibiting him from entering Israel, accusing him of favoring Hezbollah, Hamas, and Iran. Although the Secretary-General refrained from a public response regarding this ban, his spokesperson did address the issue. By the meeting’s conclusion, members of the Security Council, similar to much of the international community, were left awaiting Israel’s next move. As the crisis deepened, the death toll from the air strikes escalated, as reported by Al Jazeera’s correspondent in Beirut. “We know so far there have been six fatalities,” stated Laura Khan from Al Jazeera. She noted that two individuals succumbed to their injuries immediately, while others passed away later in hospital, with seven others receiving medical treatment. The UN Secretary-General cautioned that the longstanding conflicts in the Middle East are “fast becoming an inferno,” highlighting a detrimental cycle of violence which he asserted must cease. Reports confirmed that an explosion, felt throughout Beirut, occurred near Bashoura, a region only one kilometer south of where the correspondent was positioned, intensifying fears among residents. This incident marks a troubling escalation, as it is only the second time in the year that central Beirut has been subjected to such targeted strikes amid ongoing hostilities between Hezbollah and Israel. Observers remain vigilant, and the atmosphere in Beirut continues to be charged with the sound of explosions. Al Jazeera remains committed to bringing timely updates on these escalating events, which include concurrent strikes on Gaza and rising tensions with Iran.
The recent air strikes on Beirut are part of a larger pattern of escalating violence between Israel and groups such as Hezbollah. The strikes follow a continuous period of hostilities that has involved heightened military actions in the region, especially concerning the ongoing conflict in Gaza and the complex relationships among regional powers, including Iran. These incidents have drawn the attention of the international community, with numerous calls for intervention and de-escalation of tensions. The UN Security Council’s discussions surrounding the implementation of prior resolutions, notably from 2006 concerning a buffer zone in southern Lebanon, indicate the ongoing diplomatic challenges in addressing the multifaceted conflict.
In conclusion, the recent Israeli air strikes in Beirut have resulted in a tragic loss of life and further exacerbated the already volatile situation in Lebanon. With the casualties rising and the political landscape tense, the urgency for de-escalation has never been more pressing. The UN Secretary-General’s warnings about the conflict engulfing the region reflect the broader implications of violence that extend beyond Lebanon’s borders. Continuous monitoring and diplomatic efforts will be crucial in preventing further escalation and in seeking long-term peace in the Middle East.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
