BEIRUT: In a significant escalation, Israel has unleashed a series of air strikes targeting Hezbollah strongholds in Beirut and southern Lebanon, marking a critical point in the ongoing conflict.

This escalation occurred on Saturday, November 16, just a day after Lebanese officials revealed they were considering a truce proposal from the United States.

Israel's military campaign has gained momentum following a deadly airstrike earlier this week in Syria, which reportedly killed two high-ranking officials from Islamic Jihad, a Palestinian militant group allied with Hamas in Gaza.

The dynamics of this conflict are further complicated by Iran's unwavering support for Hamas, Hezbollah, and Islamic Jihad. Notably, Iranian leaders have recently called for an immediate end to the nearly two-month war in Lebanon.

Since the hostilities began on September 23, ground troops have also been deployed, transitioning from sporadic skirmishes to full-scale operations prompted by Hezbollah's aggressive actions in the context of the ongoing Gaza war.

Footage from AFPTV captured the intensity of the Israeli strikes over the southern suburbs of Beirut, with warnings issued for residents to evacuate.

Israeli air strikes and their consequences

According to Lebanon's state-run National News Agency (NNA), Israeli forces executed multiple air raids throughout the day, including three early morning strikes and a targeted attack in the Chiyah neighborhood.

The Israeli military confirmed it had struck what they described as "a weapons storage facility" and a Hezbollah command center.

Broader impact and casualties

The carnage extends beyond Beirut, as a strike on the city of Tyre was also reported, near historically significant UNESCO-listed ruins.

The toll continues to rise, with the Lebanese health ministry indicating that two Hezbollah-affiliated rescuers were killed in these strikes.

In retaliation, Hezbollah announced that they had targeted Israeli military installations in northern Israel, including a naval base in the Haifa area.

The staggering human cost of this conflict has been compounded, with authorities reporting over 3,440 casualties in Lebanon since fighting escalated last year.

The implications extend to Gaza as well, with Israel conducting operations in the northern regions of Jabalia and Beit Lahia.

Reports from the Israeli military indicate that their intentions are to impair Hamas's ability to regroup following relentless assaults since early October.

Humanitarian crisis and international response

Adding to the humanitarian crisis, a United Nations assessment has warned that famine looms in northern Gaza, where displacement due to conflict has forced at least 100,000 people from their homes.

Israel swiftly rejected accusations from Human Rights Watch labeling their actions as a "crime against humanity", with the United States echoing these sentiments by deeming genocide claims "unfounded."

Casualties in Gaza and escalating tension

Meanwhile, the Palestinian health ministry reported at least 35 fatalities in Gaza from strikes in just 24 hours, pushing the cumulative toll over 13 months of conflict to a shocking 43,799, with civilians comprising the majority of casualties.

The conflict’s history can be traced back to the events of October 7, 2023, when a surprise attack by Hamas resulted in 1,206 Israeli deaths, predominantly civilians.

On the ground in Gaza, civilians are navigating the horror of ongoing strikes, with a recent account detailing the devastating aftermath of a residential building being obliterated in Rafah, leaving rescuers to scramble through debris in search of survivors.

Israel's strategic military actions and diplomatic efforts

In an unexpected move, Israel claimed responsibility for a strike on Islamic Jihad in Syria, which resulted in the deaths of prominent leaders of the group, further straining the volatile landscape.

Despite the chaos, diplomatic efforts are being made, with reports indicating that a senior U.S. ambassador presented a truce proposal entailing a 60-day ceasefire during which Lebanese troops would secure the border.

While the proposal remains unaddressed by Israel, optimism exists among certain Lebanese officials regarding the dialogue's potential outcome.

Iran's unwavering support for Hezbollah

Simultaneously, Iranian support for Hezbollah is unwavering, as a key adviser to Iran's supreme leader reiterated Tehran's commitment to supporting the Lebanese government and resistance forces under all circumstances.

Awaiting resolution or further escalation

As the situation continues to evolve, the international community watches with bated breath for signs of resolution or further escalation in this tumultuous region.