Jerusalem: Tensions in the Middle East escalated further on Monday after Israel announced fresh strikes on Beirut's southern suburbs, a key Hezbollah stronghold, ahead of an emergency United Nations Security Council meeting on the conflict.
The development comes as diplomatic efforts to secure ceasefires in Lebanon and the wider region remain stalled.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Israel Katz said the military had been instructed to target what they described as Hezbollah-linked sites in Beirut's southern suburbs.
The area, commonly known as Dahiyeh, is regarded as one of Hezbollah's main strongholds and has largely avoided major attacks since April despite ongoing tensions.
Israeli officials argued that the decision was taken in response to what they described as repeated violations of the ceasefire by Hezbollah and continued attacks against Israeli territory.
Emergency UN meeting expected
The announcement comes as the United Nations Security Council prepares to hold an emergency session to discuss Israel's expanding military operations in Lebanon.
Several international actors have expressed concern over the growing violence, with European leaders calling for restraint and warning against further escalation.
The meeting is expected to focus on the deteriorating security situation and the risk of a broader regional conflict.
Civilians flee southern Beirut
Reports from Beirut indicated that many residents began leaving the southern suburbs after news of the planned strikes emerged.
Families carrying belongings reportedly crowded roads leading out of the area amid fears of renewed bombardment.
Many residents had hoped that the ceasefire announced earlier this year would bring a degree of stability, but repeated exchanges of fire have continued to undermine those expectations.
Israel expands operations in southern Lebanon
The latest developments follow Israel's announcement that its forces had seized the historic Beaufort Castle in southern Lebanon, a strategically important position overlooking large parts of the region.
Israeli officials described the move as part of a broader effort to establish greater military control over areas near the Litani River.
Defence Minister Katz said Israel intends to create a security zone free from weapons and militant activity in parts of southern Lebanon.
Hezbollah and Israel continue exchanging attacks
Despite previous ceasefire arrangements, both sides continue to accuse each other of violating agreements.
Hezbollah claimed responsibility for missile attacks targeting northern Israel, including areas around Tiberias. The group also reported attacks on Israeli forces operating inside Lebanese territory.
Israel, meanwhile, maintains that its military actions are defensive measures aimed at preventing further attacks.
The conflict in Lebanon is increasingly intertwined with broader regional tensions involving Iran, Israel and the United States.
Iranian officials stated on Monday that a sustainable ceasefire in Lebanon remains an essential condition for any broader agreement aimed at ending the ongoing conflict with the United States.
The remarks highlight how developments in Lebanon are now closely connected to wider diplomatic efforts across the Middle East.
US-backed diplomatic efforts continue
The United States continues to mediate between Lebanon and Israel in an attempt to reduce tensions.
Recent security discussions involving representatives from both countries were held in Washington, and additional negotiations are expected in the coming days.
According to reports, US officials have proposed a framework under which Hezbollah would halt attacks while Israel would refrain from escalating military operations in Beirut.
However, significant differences remain between the parties.
Rising casualties and regional concern
The continued fighting has resulted in mounting casualties on both sides.
Lebanese authorities report that thousands of people have been killed since the conflict intensified earlier this year, while Israel has also suffered military and civilian losses.
The humanitarian impact, combined with fears of a wider regional war, has increased international pressure for a diplomatic solution.
Israel's decision to launch fresh strikes on Beirut's southern suburbs marks another significant escalation in the conflict with Hezbollah. With an emergency UN Security Council meeting scheduled and diplomatic negotiations struggling to gain momentum, the coming days could prove critical for efforts to prevent a broader regional confrontation. As civilians continue to flee affected areas and both sides exchange accusations and attacks, hopes for a lasting ceasefire remain uncertain.
(With AFP inputs)