Smoke billows over Beirut’s southern suburbs after an Israeli strike, amidst ongoing tensions between Hezbollah and Israeli forces. 

By Phil Stewart

The United States calls for Israel to reduce strikes in and around Beirut, citing high civilian casualties caused by recent heavy Israeli attacks on the southern suburbs. Tens of thousands have fled the area, where Hezbollah offices and facilities were targeted. U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin expressed the need for negotiations to allow civilians to return home on both sides of the border.

The U.N. peacekeeping mission in Lebanon, known as UNIFIL, reported deliberate attacks by Israeli forces, hindering aid efforts in war zones. The U.S. has been urging Israel to protect civilians in Gaza and Lebanon, threatening restrictions on military aid if the humanitarian crisis persists.

The conflict between Israel and Hamas-led militants has left thousands dead and displaced millions. The situation remains dire, with widespread hunger and destroyed infrastructure further exacerbating the crisis.

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