The Israeli military announced Thursday it has commenced strikes on Hezbollah infrastructure in Beirut's southern suburb of Dahiyeh. This action follows an earlier warning for residents to evacuate the area.
The military confirmed the strikes on Hezbollah infrastructure, prompting an exodus of residents. Massive traffic jams formed on the outskirts as people fled, with some firing weapons to urge others to leave quickly. Hundreds of families, displaced and anxious, sought refuge with uncertain destinations.
Lebanon was drawn into the conflict on Monday after Hezbollah attacked Israel. Lebanese authorities report at least 123 fatalities and 683 injuries since the start of hostilities. The Dahiyeh suburb, a Hezbollah stronghold, was estimated to house between 600,000 and 800,000 people. Reports indicate the area is now nearly deserted.
Following the warning, severe traffic congestion affected Beirut. Institutions and companies closed, sending employees home. The total number of displaced people since Monday's Israeli strikes was estimated at over 90,000. The government's Disaster Management Unit urged those displaced to move towards eastern and northern regions as shelters reached capacity.
Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich remarked on Telegram, "Very soon Dahiyeh will resemble Khan Younis," referencing the Gaza city devastated in the war. The UN Special Coordinator for Lebanon, Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, noted the significant evacuations and the ongoing flight of people from southern Lebanon, stating that "no side can impose a lasting solution by force."