Israel Intensifies Bombardment Of Gaza, Southern Lebanon Ahead Of October 7 Anniversary

Israel has intensified its military operations in northern Gaza and southern Lebanon, escalating tensions with Iran-backed militant groups. Palestinian officials reported that an airstrike on a mosque resulted in at least 19 fatalities.

This development comes a year after the October 7, 2023, attack by Hamas. Israel has also opened a new front against Hezbollah in Lebanon, which has been exchanging fire with Israel since the conflict in Gaza began.

Photo Credit: PTI

In response to recent events, Israel has launched airstrikes in the suburbs of Beirut. The Israeli military confirmed targeting areas near Beirut and reported that approximately 130 projectiles had been launched from Lebanon into Israeli territory, with some being intercepted.

"It was very difficult. All of us in Beirut could hear everything," said resident Haytham Al-Darazi. Another resident, Maxime Jawad, described it as a "night of terror."

Conflict Expands Across the Region

The conflict risks involving the United States further, given its significant military and diplomatic support for Israel. Iran-aligned groups in Syria, Iraq, and Yemen have joined the fray with long-range strikes on Israel.

Meanwhile, Israel remains on high alert ahead of memorial events for the October 7 attack, with global rallies marking the anniversary.

In southern Beirut, over 30 airstrikes were reported overnight into Sunday by Lebanon's state-run National News Agency.

The strikes are part of Israel's campaign against Hezbollah, which is considered Lebanon's most powerful armed force. Hezbollah has launched rockets into Israel as a gesture of support for Palestinians.

Impact on Civilians and Infrastructure

A strike in Jiyyeh killed three sisters and their aunt. "This is a civilian home, and the biggest evidence is those martyred are four women," stated neighbour Ali Al Hajj. The health ministry reported 25 deaths from Israeli strikes on Saturday alone.

In Gaza, an Israeli strike hit a mosque near Deir al-Balah's main hospital where displaced individuals sought refuge. Another strike on a school-turned-shelter resulted in four more deaths. The military claimed these strikes targeted militants.

Escalation in Northern Gaza

Israel announced a new offensive in Jabaliya, northern Gaza, which hosts a refugee camp dating back to the 1948 war surrounding Israel's creation. Despite previous operations there, militants have regrouped repeatedly. Three Israeli soldiers were severely wounded during Sunday's fighting.

The military reiterated calls for evacuating northern Gaza due to its status as a dangerous combat zone.

Leaflets dropped over the area warned residents of the new phase of war. Frantic residents fled once again; Samia Khader shared her plight: "Since October 7 to the present day, this is the 12th time that I and my children... do not know where to go."

Humanitarian Concerns and Casualties

The Civil Defence recovered three bodies after a strike hit a home in Shati refugee camp. Imad Alarabid mourned on Facebook about an airstrike killing twelve family members at his Jabaliya home. Freelance journalist Hassan Hamd was killed in shelling; his death was confirmed by Al Jazeera reporter Anas al-Sharif.

The Gaza Health Ministry reports nearly 42,000 Palestinian deaths since the war began, noting that over half were women and children without specifying how many were fighters.