Israel's military operations in Lebanon have entered their fourth day, with ground forces advancing into border towns and conducting air strikes against Hezbollah. Smoke was visible over south Beirut following a reported strike on a Hezbollah stronghold. Israel's military had issued evacuation warnings for residents in the area.
Lebanon was drawn into the conflict after Hezbollah attacked Israel, reportedly in response to the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei during weekend strikes. Hezbollah's leader vowed continued resistance, stating the group had targeted Israeli positions across a wide area.
Lebanese authorities report at least 72 deaths, 437 wounded, and 83,000 displaced. Israel's military has instructed residents south of Lebanon's Litani river to evacuate, citing impending military action.
Israeli troops from multiple divisions are operating in southern Lebanon. UN peacekeepers reported Israeli military activities violating Lebanese sovereignty. Hezbollah claimed engagement with Israeli troops, while Israel reported moderate injuries to two soldiers.
An air strike also hit a hotel in Hazmieh, east of Beirut. This marks one of the first reported Israeli attacks in this area, which houses foreign embassies. Residents in several locations received evacuation warnings.
Strikes on Wednesday hit Beirut's southern suburbs and towns outside Hezbollah's traditional sphere of influence, including Aramoun and Saadiyat, resulting in casualties. A four-story building in Baalbek was also targeted.