Hezbollah denies Israeli ground troop incursions into southern Lebanon, while Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati warns of a severe humanitarian crisis, declaring a need for international aid. Recent military actions include rocket attacks from Hezbollah and strikes by the Israeli military, resulting in airline cancellations and a $426 million appeal for civilian support due to the conflict’s destruction.
Hezbollah has refuted claims that Israeli ground forces have entered southern Lebanon amidst escalating tensions. Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati has warned that the nation is currently experiencing one of the most perilous periods in its history. Recently, Hezbollah announced a series of attacks, including firing a number of “Fadi-4” rockets aimed at the Glilot military base in Tel Aviv, which serves as the headquarters for Israeli military Intelligence Unit 8200, as well as the Mossad headquarters in the suburbs of the city. Concurrently, the Israeli military reported that while some rockets were intercepted, strikes had been carried out in retaliation. Additionally, several airlines, including Swiss Air and Lufthansa, have suspended flights to both Beirut and Tel Aviv due to ongoing hostilities in the region, with flight cancellations extending into late November for Beirut and late October for Tel Aviv. This decision has been made to ensure better predictability for passengers and crew during such uncertain times. In response to the humanitarian crisis exacerbated by the conflict, Prime Minister Mikati, alongside United Nations representatives, announced a $426 million emergency appeal aimed at meeting the needs of civilians affected by escalating violence. France’s military has also indicated that a helicopter carrier will soon arrive in the Eastern Mediterranean, ready to assist in the potential evacuation of foreign nationals as conflict escalates. The Israeli military confirmed that its ground offensive will focus on Hezbollah bases along the border, emphasizing that its operations do not target the Lebanese population. Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari stated, “Hezbollah has transformed Lebanese villages adjacent to Israeli settlements into military strongholds prepared to launch assaults on Israel.” Meanwhile, incidents of violence continue in the occupied West Bank, with reports of casualties resulting from armed confrontations. Prime Minister Mikati reiterated the urgency for international aid, stating, “Around a million of our people have been displaced because of the devastating war that Israel is waging on Lebanon,” highlighting the urgent need for humanitarian assistance as the conflict unfolds.
The situation in Lebanon has deteriorated significantly due to ongoing hostilities between Hezbollah and Israel. With tensions heightened, civilians are facing dire consequences, leading to widespread displacement and a humanitarian crisis. The Lebanese government, represented by Prime Minister Najib Mikati, is advocating for international aid to assist displaced populations, while Hezbollah’s military responses have further escalated the conflict. The international community, including Western nations, is closely monitoring the situation to ensure the safety of their citizens amid fears of a full-scale war. Airline suspensions reflect the growing concerns over travel in the region as violence persists.
In summary, as tensions between Hezbollah and Israel escalate, Lebanon is encountering one of its most challenging periods in history, characterized by widespread displacement and a significant humanitarian crisis. Prime Minister Najib Mikati’s urgent appeal for aid underscores the severity of the situation, while military actions and international airline responses signal the geopolitical complexities at play. Both local and international actors are mobilizing resources and support to address the escalating crisis and its implications for Lebanon and the broader region.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com