New Wave of Israeli Airstrikes in Beirut Sparks Panic Among Displaced, Death Toll Reaches 687

Kathmandu – The Israeli military announced on Thursday afternoon that it had launched a new series of airstrikes in Beirut targeting Hezbollah positions. Prior to the strikes, warnings were issued urging residents to evacuate specific buildings in the Bachoura and Zkak al-Blat areas. The targeted building in Zkak al-Blat houses a branch of Al-Qard Al-Hassan, which Israel claims is used by Hezbollah as a financial arm to fund weapons purchases and pay its fighters.

The warnings and subsequent strikes caused panic among families who had been displaced by previous Israeli attacks and had taken refuge in central Beirut.

Meanwhile, Lebanon’s Ministry of Public Health reported on Thursday that the death toll from Israeli attacks in Lebanon since March 2 has risen to 687, with 1,774 injuries. The ministry also stated that 18 paramedics have been killed and 45 others injured.

On the same day, Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam stated that the government is working to halt the ongoing war and ensure the safe return of displaced residents. Addressing the worsening humanitarian crisis, he said, “We will work around the clock to stop this war and enable you to return to your homes as soon as possible, to a safe and dignified return.” He thanked Lebanese communities for hosting displaced families and expressed gratitude to friendly nations for providing humanitarian assistance to ease civilian suffering.

Hezbollah had announced the launch of rockets from Lebanon toward Israel at dawn on March 2, marking the first such attack since a ceasefire was declared on November 27, 2024. In response, Israel launched what it described as an “offensive military campaign” against the group, including heavy airstrikes targeting Beirut’s southern suburbs and areas in southern and eastern Lebanon, as well as ground incursions along the border.