27 Sep 2024 | 10:55 PM UTC
Lebanon: Renewed Israeli airstrikes reported early Sept. 28 following earlier targeted strikes against Lebanese Hizballah headquarters in Beirut. /update 2
New Israeli airstrikes reported in Lebanon early Sept. 28 following earlier aerial attacks on Lebanese Hizballah headquarters in Beirut.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have reportedly conducted further airstrikes against various targets in Beirut's Dahieh neighborhood early Sept. 28. The strikes follow earlier aerial attacks that took place the previous day against Lebanese Hizballah (LH) headquarters near the Al Jandouleen traffic circle in the same neighborhood. Preliminary information indicates at least two individuals were killed in the Sept. 27 strike, and 74 people were injured. Reports also indicate that LH leader Hassan Nasrallah was the target of the strike; Nasrallah's status remains unclear.
Increased security, transport, and business disruptions are likely in the affected area over the coming hours. Further cross-border violence is likely in the short term. Demonstrations are possible.
Avoid the impacted areas until authorities give the all-clear. Seek alternative routes and allow additional travel time to nearby destinations. Heed instructions from authorities. In light of recent regional tensions, consider avoiding nonessential travel to Lebanon, particularly the border region shared with Israel, until the situation stabilizes. Consider departing Lebanon via commercial means while these are available. Note that commercial options in Lebanon may become increasingly limited if the security environment deteriorates. Avoid any demonstrations that materialize.
The latest Israeli strike comes amid the ongoing cross-border violence between the IDF and LH and Hamas militants. The IDF's objective is to deter the militants from further attacks against Israel and to force them to withdraw from areas near the country's border with Lebanon.
On Sept. 20, the IDF targeted Ibrahim Aqil, a senior LH commander in the same Al Qaim area of Dahieh in Beirut, killing nine people and injuring 59 others.
