Fierce clashes between the Israeli army and Hezbollah erupted in Lebanon on Thursday, with intense battles reported in the towns of Khiam and Biyyadah. Concurrently, Israeli airstrikes targeted Beirut’s southern suburbs and villages in the Baalbek-Hermel governorate.
The strikes resumed Thursday morning after a brief pause during US envoy Amos Hochstein’s visit to Beirut, which aimed to mediate tensions before he continued to Tel Aviv.
Hezbollah retaliated with rocket fire into northern Israel, hitting Nahariya and killing a 30-year-old man, according to Magen David Adom medics. This escalation adds to the toll since confrontations began on September 23, which has now surpassed 3,520 deaths and 14,940 injuries.
Khiam: A Strategic Battleground
The town of Khiam has become a focal point of fighting. Reports indicated Israeli forces captured the town on Wednesday night, but Hezbollah countered these claims, stating that battles continued on multiple fronts with heavy weaponry. Israeli forces are reportedly demolishing houses and residential buildings as part of their incursion.
Khiam holds strategic importance due to its location atop the Al-Hamames Hill, 500 meters above sea level, allowing oversight of northern Israel and the Golan Heights.
Widespread Airstrikes and Evacuations
Israeli airstrikes hit multiple areas, including Beirut’s southern suburbs and Baalbek-Hermel, targeting Hezbollah’s alleged infrastructure. These strikes also destroyed residential and commercial buildings, leaving significant destruction. A building near a special needs school in Kafaat was among the targets.
Evacuation warnings were issued to residents in areas such as Ghobeiri, Hadath, and Haret Hreik. Mysterious evacuation calls also caused widespread confusion in Beirut and Mount Lebanon, raising concerns about psychological warfare tactics.
In the Bekaa Valley, airstrikes on Younin killed four civilians after hitting an inhabited house without prior warning. Other strikes targeted areas like Brital, Makneh, and Chaat in the Anti-Lebanon mountains.
Lebanon’s Independence Day Amid Conflict
As Lebanon marked its 81st Independence Day, Army Chief Joseph Aoun condemned Israel’s ongoing aggression, which he described as a “destructive and brutal war” displacing thousands. Aoun emphasized the army’s commitment to defending Lebanon’s sovereignty and supporting displaced citizens.
Deployed in the south in coordination with UNIFIL under Resolution 1701, the Lebanese army continues to face significant challenges. Aoun assured citizens of the army’s steadfastness, emphasizing that the military remains united and committed to protecting Lebanon’s security and stability.