Israel Launches Heavy Airstrikes on Beirut’s Southern Suburbs After Hezbollah Rocket Barrage

Beirut/Jerusalem : Israeli warplanes carried out intensive airstrikes at dawn on Monday targeting Beirut’s southern suburbs, hours after rockets were launched from Lebanese territory toward Israel, according to local media reports.

The strikes focused on Dahieh, a stronghold of **Hezbollah**, located in the southern suburbs of the Lebanese capital. Residents reportedly fled the area fearing further escalation, while ambulances were dispatched to evacuate casualties. No official casualty figures were immediately available.

In a statement, Hezbollah said it had fired rockets and drones at Israel in retaliation for the reported killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader, **Ali Khamenei**, in joint Israeli-US strikes on Iran. The group claimed it targeted the Mishmar HaCarmel missile defense site south of Haifa with advanced rockets and drones shortly after midnight.

Lebanese Prime Minister **Nawaf Salam** condemned the rocket attack, warning against dragging Lebanon into a broader conflict. He described the launch from southern Lebanon as a reckless act that jeopardizes national security and provides Israel with justification for continued military action. Salam pledged to take necessary measures to hold those responsible accountable and to safeguard the Lebanese population.

On its part, the Israeli military confirmed it conducted “forceful” airstrikes across Lebanon in response to the projectiles fired by Hezbollah, stating that operations were initiated following the group’s decision to join the ongoing campaign. While specific targets were not detailed, Israeli media reported that multiple strikes hit Beirut’s Dahieh district.

Hezbollah’s rocket and drone barrage triggered air raid sirens in Haifa, the Upper Galilee, and the Golan Heights. The Israeli military said several projectiles were intercepted, while others landed in open areas. No casualties were reported on the Israeli side.

With inputs from IANS