Beirut airstrike, Israel-Hezbollah conflict

Massive Airstrike Rocks Central Beirut: 15 Dead, Dozens Injured

Early Saturday morning, the Basta area of central Beirut was devastated by a powerful airstrike, sending shockwaves across the city and raising concerns over a fragile U.S.-mediated effort to secure a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah.

Destruction in the Heart of Beirut

The attack, which occurred around 4 a.m., targeted a multistory residential building, reducing it to rubble. The strike also inflicted severe damage on neighboring homes and structures. Witnesses reported that the demolished building had six stories and 14 apartments, leaving its residents trapped beneath the debris.

The force of the explosion could be felt over 1.5 miles away, with many Beirut residents describing the sound as deafening. Rescue teams worked tirelessly throughout the morning, searching the ruins with stretchers and body bags as grieving families gathered nearby, hoping for news of their loved ones.

Casualties and Ongoing Search Efforts

The Lebanese Health Ministry confirmed that 15 people lost their lives in the attack, while another 63 sustained injuries. However, officials noted that DNA tests would be conducted before releasing a final death toll, as many victims remain unaccounted for in the aftermath of the devastating strike.

Uncertainty Surrounding the Target

The specific target of the airstrike remains unclear. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF), which have intensified air raids across Lebanon in recent days, did not issue an evacuation warning for the Basta area prior to the attack. When questioned about the incident, the IDF stated, “We currently do not have any comment on the matter.”

Escalating Tensions Amid Ceasefire Talks

This airstrike is part of a broader escalation in Israeli military operations in Lebanon, threatening to derail international efforts to negotiate peace between the warring parties. The ongoing violence underscores the dire humanitarian crisis unfolding in the region, with civilians bearing the brunt of the conflict.