An Israeli airstrike in Beirut killed a senior Hezbollah commander, increasing fears of a full-fledged war in the Middle East. The Israeli military targeted Ibrahim Qubaisi, the commander of Hezbollah’s missile and rocket force, in Beirut. Israel conducted further strikes on Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon, expressing intentions to continue. Lebanon reported hundreds dead and wounded since the airstrikes began. Hezbollah retaliated by launching rockets at Israeli military bases. President Biden urged for a diplomatic resolution at the U.N., while Israel shifted its focus from Gaza to the northern border with Lebanon. Prime Minister Netanyahu urged Lebanese citizens to reject Hezbollah’s leadership. Israel accused Hezbollah of hiding weapons in civilian areas, leading to civilian casualties in Lebanon. Calls for diplomacy are growing as the conflict escalates, with UN human rights chief and the White House national security adviser urging de-escalation. The conflict has raised concerns that the U.S. and Iran may be pulled into a wider war. Hezbollah recently suffered heavy losses in an explosion attributed to Israel. The situation is reminiscent of the Israel-Hezbollah war in 2006, stirring defiance and anxiety among the Lebanese people. As the destruction and casualties mount, efforts for a diplomatic solution are crucial to preventing further escalation and casualties.
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