Explosions Rock Beirut as Israel Targets Hezbollah Financial Group
Photo: Beirut’s southern suburbs, October 20, 2024. REUTERS/Mohammed Yassin
On October 20, hundreds of Beirut residents fled their homes as explosions rang out across the Lebanese capital. Israel prepared to attack sites linked to Hezbollah’s financial operations, urging people to leave those areas immediately. Witnesses reported dense black smoke and at least 10 blasts, with a building reduced to rubble in the Chiyah neighborhood. Panicked crowds caused chaos in the streets as they sought safety.
Israeli military spokespersons warned of strikes on Hezbollah financial infrastructure, targeting the organization’s ability to function economically. Cross-border tensions escalated following previous conflicts with Hamas. Israel intensified military campaigns in Gaza and Lebanon in response to threats, aiming to secure borders and prevent rival group regrouping.