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Israel Expands Airstrikes on Beirut, Southern Lebanon Amid Escalating Conflict and Displacement
Israel Targets Beirut Residential Areas Amid New Airstrike Wave
Israel has launched a new round of airstrikes on the Lebanese capital, Beirut, targeting several areas including residential neighborhoods. One strike specifically hit a residential building in the densely-populated Bourj Hammoud area. According to the Lebanese Health Ministry, more than 687 people have been killed and over 1,500 injured in Israeli attacks since March 2. The escalating conflict has displaced over 822,600 people within Lebanon, and the United Nations reports that nearly 84,000 Syrians and more than 8,000 Lebanese have crossed into Syria this month.
Israeli Pressure on Lebanon and Government's Dilemma
The Israeli military is exerting a "maximum pressure campaign" not only against Hezbollah but also against the Lebanese government. Israeli Defense Minister and Prime Minister (implicitly Benjamin Netanyahu) have pressed the Lebanese state to act against Hezbollah, with the Israeli Prime Minister stating the Lebanese government is 'playing with fire'. However, Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, as reported, stated that these measures cannot be enforced during wartime, emphasizing the need to preserve "national unity" to prevent the army from splitting along sectarian lines. Israel is also targeting strategic bridges in southern Lebanon, aiming to cut Hezbollah's supply lines, which further impacts civilian movement.
International Response and Humanitarian Crisis
The United States is reportedly frustrated with the Lebanese government and Lebanese army for not confronting Hezbollah. The White House has affirmed Israel's right to self-defense against threats. The Trump administration has not indicated any intention to intervene or mediate in the conflict. Meanwhile, the European Commission President announced that the EU will provide $115 million in humanitarian assistance to Lebanon. The Lebanese government and the international community are struggling to provide sufficient shelters and aid due to funding shortfalls, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis as the death toll continues to climb.
*Source: YouTube: Al Jazeera English (2026-03-13)*
