On November 1, 2024, Israel conducted a series of airstrikes targeting southern Beirut, Lebanon. The Israeli military stated that these strikes aimed at facilities linked to the Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah, following evacuation orders issued to local residents.
According to the Lebanese National News Agency, the attacks caused extensive destruction, including fires and the flattening of numerous buildings. There have been no official reports regarding casualties from these strikes.
This escalation occurred a day after U.S. officials met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to discuss a potential agreement to end hostilities in Gaza and Lebanon. Reports suggest that the plan involves Israel withdrawing from Lebanon while Hezbollah militants retreat 30 kilometers north of the Litani River, with the Lebanese army taking control of the border area alongside UN peacekeeping forces.
In a related development, Palestinian news agency WAFA reported that 47 Palestinians were killed in Israeli airstrikes in the central Gaza Strip, specifically in the camps of Nuseirat, Deir al-Balah, and al-Zawayda. Many others were injured, with residential buildings housing refugees being targeted.
Eyewitness accounts indicate that residents rushed to assist victims but were themselves caught in subsequent bombings. The Israeli military confirmed ongoing operations in Gaza, claiming to have identified and eliminated numerous armed militants in the area.
In total, the Israeli military reported attacking over 200 targets in both Gaza and Lebanon within a 24-hour period. The strikes focused on command centers and missile launch sites belonging to Hamas and Hezbollah.
Israeli security sources noted that the southern suburbs of Beirut experienced at least 11 airstrikes, with reports of multiple explosions and thick smoke observed in the area. The Israeli military asserted efforts to minimize civilian casualties during these operations.