Lebanon is witnessing its bloodiest day since Hezbollah’s assault on Israel in support of Hamas on October 7 of last year, following a series of extensive Israeli airstrikes that have reportedly killed 274 people, according to the Lebanese government. The Israeli military has indicated that further attacks are imminent, raising concerns about a rapidly escalating conflict.
Israeli forces have warned civilians to evacuate targeted areas, with the Bekaa Valley—an established Hezbollah stronghold—identified as the next focus of their offensive. Prior to this escalation, more than 100,000 Lebanese had already been displaced due to ongoing Israeli strikes, with no clear timeline for their return home.
The scale of Israel’s current air campaign suggests a strategic calculation that Hezbollah is currently in a weakened state, providing Israel an opportunity to inflict significant damage and alter the balance of power along the Israel-Lebanon border.
The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah has a long history, but it intensified following the Hamas attacks last October. Since then, Hezbollah has engaged in a sustained campaign of rocket fire aimed at tying down Israeli troops and causing damage. Approximately 60,000 Israelis have been forced to evacuate to the central regions of the country, as Israeli military objectives now include the safe return of these citizens.
Internationally, pressure is mounting from the US, UK, and other allies for a ceasefire in Gaza as a potential means to de-escalate the situation. Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah has vowed to continue attacks on Israel until a ceasefire in Gaza is achieved. However, it appears neither Nasrallah nor Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is willing to accept the US’s proposed deal at this time.
Despite broad support for the war among Israelis, Netanyahu remains a contentious figure, facing criticism for his leadership. While his poll ratings have improved, significant segments of the electorate view him as untrustworthy and believe he has neglected the plight of hostages in Gaza. Nevertheless, his coalition, bolstered by right-wing supporters, has secured his political position.
The Israeli offensive is fraught with risks; although Hezbollah has sustained losses, it retains considerable capabilities to retaliate. As tensions escalate, both Israel’s allies and adversaries are bracing for potentially severe repercussions in the region.
