Israeli army issues evacuation notice to residents of Aaqbiye building
The Arabic-speaking spokesperson for the Israeli army, Avichay Adraee, called on residents of a building in Aaqbiye, southern Lebanon, to evacuate and move “north of the Zahrani River.”
The building was marked in red on a map attached to his message. “You are near a site used by Hezbollah,” he warned.
The structure is located directly across from a gas station.
U.S. embassy in Iraq targeted again
A drone struck the U.S. embassy in Baghdad Wednesday morning, a security source told AFP, with a journalist reporting having heard an explosion.
“A drone directly hit” the embassy, which has already been targeted multiple times in recent days, the source said, without specifying whether there was any damage. Another security official added that the drone fell “near the embassy’s security barrier.”
The Kuwaiti military says it is intercepting rockets and drones
6 drones intercepted in Saudi Arabia, says defense ministry
⚡ 2 Israeli strikes in central Beirut, 3 in southern suburbs
An Israeli strike hit a building in Zokak al-Blat in central Beirut, and another targeted the Basta district around 1:30 a.m., while three more strikes hit the city’s southern suburbs, according to local channel al-Jadeed.
Ambulances were dispatched to the areas affected in Beirut.
These neighborhoods had already been targeted after Israeli threats against specific buildings on March 12.
2 killed near Tel Aviv in Iranian missile strikes
Two people were killed in Iranian missile strikes near Tel Aviv, Israeli emergency services reported, according to AFP.
⚡ Two Israeli strikes hit central Beirut and 3 target the southern suburbs
An Israeli airstrike targeted a building in Beirut’s Zoqaq al-Blat neighborhood, and another strike targeted the Basta neighborhood around 1:30 a.m., while three additional strikes hit the southern suburbs of the capital, local channel al-Jadeed reported. Ambulances were dispatched to the affected areas in Beirut.
Israel had carried out strikes on these neighborhoods after issuing evacuation notices on these buildings on March 12.
Israel: 2 killed by Iranian strikes near Tel Aviv, say rescue services
Israeli rescue services, cited by AFP, reported that two people were killed in Iranian missile strikes near Tel Aviv.
'Several' Israeli sites hit by Iranian strikes; 2 seriously injured
According to Israeli police and health sources reported by AFP, Iranian strikes hit “several” sites in Israel, leaving two people seriously injured.
Explosions heard in Jerusalem after Iranian missiles detected
At least two explosions were heard in Jerusalem early Wednesday, shortly after the Israeli army reported a new salvo of missiles fired from Iran.
AFP journalists heard the detonations and saw two bright flashes in the sky, moments after the army said its air defense systems were activated “to intercept the threat” from the Iranian missiles.
Israeli army says it carried out preventive strikes in Lebanon
The Israeli army said Tuesday evening it carried out preventive strikes in Lebanon targeting Hezbollah launchers, following a series of air raid alerts in northern Israel.
“Over the past hour, the air force struck launchers [rockets or missiles] and Hezbollah militants across Lebanon, as part of efforts to disrupt and prevent fire toward Israel,” the army said in a statement.
Earlier, it said it had “detected an intensification of Hezbollah’s preparations” to launch rocket barrages toward Israel in the coming hours.
Hezbollah says it targeted Israeli tank and bulldozer in Taybeh
Hezbollah said in a statement issued after midnight, that it targeted an Israeli Merkava tank and a D9 bulldozer in the village of Taybeh (Marjayoun), claiming it “directly hit its targets,” the state-run National News Agency reports.
The group added that it has “destroyed seven vehicles since last night [Monday to Tuesday].”
Dubai reports ‘successful’ air defense interceptions
The Dubai Media Office said authorities in the city have confirmed that sounds heard across parts of the city were the result of “successful air defence interception operations.”
The United Arab Emirates Defense Ministry also said that the country’s air defense systems were “responding to incoming missile and drone threats from Iran."
Qaraoun municipality: missile that hit house fails to explode
The municipality of Qaraoun, in West Bekaa, said late Tuesday night that an Israeli missile that struck a house in the village did not explode and caused no injuries, according to our correspondent.
According to the municipality, “the house of Mohammad Houssam Hallak was targeted. The missile pierced the roof but did not detonate, and the family is safe.”
Residents have been urged to stay at least 300 meters away from the house for 72 hours, in line with security guidelines.
Hezbollah launches a new salvo of rockets toward northern Israel, local media report.
Source tells Reuters Israeli tank fire behind UNIFIL attack
According to a Western military source cited by Reuters, preliminary findings from an internal U.N. investigation indicate that Israeli tank fire struck a UNIFIL position in southern Lebanon on March 6, wounding Ghanaian peacekeepers and highlighting the growing risks linked to the intensification of Israeli operations.
According to the source, the preliminary conclusions led by UNIFIL’s Force Commander Reserve with support from explosive ordnance disposal specialists indicated that three strikes at the al-Qawzah base were direct hits from the main gun of an Israeli battle tank.
The rounds used were 120 mm M339 HE-MP-T shells, the source added.
"Israeli involvement in the attack against UNIFIL is undeniable, given that these munitions are manufactured by Israel Military Industries (IMI)," the source said.
The findings of UNIFIL's probe have not been previously reported. UNIFIL had said on March 6 that Ghanaian peacekeepers were wounded amid heavy firing and called the incident "unacceptable," but did not say at the time who was responsible.
"That investigation is not yet complete. Once it is finalized, it will be shared with the parties, per usual practice," said UNIFIL spokesperson Kandice Ardiel.
Iran confirms Ali Larijani killed
Iran has confirmed that its top security official, Ali Larijani, has been killed, according to Iranian media reports cited by Reuters.
Read more here.
Israel issues warning to residents of Sour
The Israeli army’s Arabic-language spokesperson, Avichay Adraee, issued an evacuation notice to residents of Sour, specifically in Shabriha, Hammadiyeh, Jal al-Bahr, Zaqouq Mifdi, Buss, Maashouk, Burj al-Shamali, Nabaa, al-Hosh, Rashidiyeh, and Ain Baal.
“For your safety, we urge you to evacuate your homes immediately in accordance with the areas indicated on the map (attached to my post on X), and to move north of the Zahrani River,” Adraee said. “Your presence near Hezbollah elements, facilities, or military assets puts your life at risk. Any building used by Hezbollah for military purposes may be targeted.”
Khaybar 1: Hezbollah claims multiple attacks on Israeli army
In two statements issued as part of its “Khaybar 1” operation, Hezbollah said it carried out several attacks against the Israeli army on Tuesday evening.
The group said it fired rockets at around 8:30 p.m. toward Kiryat Shmona, Metula, al-Malikiyah, Dishon, Avivim, Kfar Blum, Ramot Naftali, Zar’it, Shtula, Even Menachem, and Beit Hillel.
It also said it targeted at the same time the Meron base, used for surveillance and the management of air operations, as well as another base in Safed and the Northern Command headquarters in the same city.
Separately, Hezbollah claimed an attack at 3:45 p.m. against Israeli soldiers in the village of Markaba, in the Sour district, on Lebanese territory.
Latest developments in the Bekaa, according to our correspondent:
Shortly after 9:00 p.m., airstrikes targeted the city of Baalbeck
Around 9:20 p.m., a strike targeted a house in the village of Qaraoun (West Bekaa).
The Israeli army also carried out strikes in the Ras al-Ain area, near Baalbeck, causing injuries.
Israeli strikes continue in southern Lebanon
Shortly before 9:00 p.m., and again around 10:00 p.m., three strikes hit the village of Ghassanieh (Saida district), wounding two people.
Around 9:15 p.m., multiple strikes simultaneously targeted Hanine (Bint Jbeil), Zifta (Nabatieh), Qantara and Khiam (Marjayoun), Touline and Kabrikha (Marjayoun), as well as the Tilal Jabbour area (Jezzine).
At approximately 9:30 p.m., Israeli strikes hit Sour and Ainata (Bint Jbeil district).
Shortly before 9:40 p.m., the town of Bint Jbeil was hit by Israeli drones.
Around 9:45 p.m., strikes targeted Sour district, including Shaaitiyeh and Rmadiyeh.
Hezbollah announces the launch of 'Khaybar 1' operations
Hezbollah announced the launch of operations codenamed “Khaybar 1.” The group had previously declared the start of “Khaybar” operations on Oct. 1, 2024, days after the assassination of its former leader, Hassan Nasrallah, on Sept. 27. The earlier operation targeted sites near Tel Aviv, roughly 100 kilometers from the Blue Line.
The name references the Battle of Khaybar in 628 CE – six years after the Hijra –when the Prophet Muhammad and his companions confronted a Jewish community in the oasis of Khaybar, in present-day northwestern Saudi Arabia.
Iran selects 'allied' ships allowed to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, tracking data shows
Iran is selecting ships from “allied” countries that are permitted to transit the Strait of Hormuz, whose passage has been tightly controlled by the Islamic Republic in retaliation for U.S.-Israeli strikes launched in late February, tracking data showed Tuesday.
At least five vessels passed through the strategic waterway – which normally carries around 20 percent of the world’s crude oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) – via Iranian waters on March 15 and 16, according to maritime intelligence firm Windward in an analysis report.
“This new route illustrates how Iran’s selective blockade has evolved to allow the transit of its allies and supporters,” the company said.
Hezbollah fires rockets toward Israel, Israeli media report
Hezbollah has launched dozens of rockets from Lebanon toward northern Israel, Israeli media report. No injuries were reported, but damage occurred from debris falling from intercepted rockets, according to emergency services.
Israel halts UNICEF aid from Egypt over 'smuggling' concerns
Israel announced the suspension of UNICEF aid shipments bound for the Gaza Strip from Egypt, after detecting an “attempted smuggling” within humanitarian aid coordinated by the U.N. agency.
The attempt was uncovered on Tuesday at the Kerem Shalom crossing between Israel and Gaza, where aid coming from Egypt is inspected, according to COGAT, the Israeli Defense Ministry body responsible for civil affairs in the occupied Palestinian territories.
In a statement, COGAT said the suspension followed “an attempted smuggling of tobacco and nicotine in aid shipments from Egypt coordinated by UNICEF,” the United Nations children’s agency.
Revolutionary Guards confirm death of Bassij paramilitary leader
On Tuesday, the Iranian Revolutionary Guards confirmed the death of General Gholamreza Soleimani, head of the Bassid paramilitary organization, which had earlier been announced by the Israeli military.
According to their official website, Sepah News, the Guards said the senior official “fell as a martyr during a terrorist attack by the U.S.-Zionist enemy.”
Israel stated that it had killed Soleimani, the commander of the volunteer force responsible in part for internal security in Iran, in a strike on Tehran, along with Ali Larijani, head of the Supreme National Security Council, though Larijani’s death has not been confirmed.
Israeli army says it is targeting Hezbollah infrastructure across Lebanon
The Arabic-language spokesperson of the Israeli army, Avichay Adraee, stated that “in recent minutes, Hezbollah has fired rockets toward multiple areas in Israel.”
“In parallel with interception efforts, the Israeli Air Force is currently targeting launch platforms and other Hezbollah infrastructure across Lebanon,” he added, assuring that the Israeli army “will not allow its citizens to be harmed and will respond forcefully to any threat against the State of Israel.”
Separately, the Israeli army said on its X account that it would continue “to act decisively against the terrorist organization Hezbollah, which has chosen to operate under the auspices of the Iranian terrorist regime.”
Iranian Parliament Speaker warns Strait of Hormuz won’t return to pre-war conditions, AFP reports
Israeli strike on Harouf kills 5
An Israeli strike on a building in Harouf (Nabatieh) earlier in the day killed five people, our correspondent reports. Rescue teams are continuing to search for four others still trapped under the rubble.
Hezbollah claims attack on Israeli soldiers
In a statement issued around 8:20 p.m., Hezbollah said it had targeted “a gathering of Israeli enemy soldiers in the Khirbet al-Manara area, opposite the Lebanese village of Houla, with a salvo of rockets.”
Update on south Lebanon, according to our correspondent in the region:
At around 7:00 p.m., Israeli fighter jets targeted a building in Nabatieh as well as a vehicle, and carried out an airstrike on Doueir (Nabatieh district).
After 7:15 p.m., several Israeli strikes hit Yahoun and Braasheet (Bint Jbeil), Taybeh (Marjayoun), Qalawieh, Touline, and the areas of Wadi Hojeir, Khirbet Silm, and Tibnin (Nabatieh), as well as Ali Taher, Kfar Tibnit, and Maydafoun.
At around 7:45 p.m., a drone struck a building in the Maydan neighborhood of Nabatieh. Shortly afterward, the village of Arab Salim in Iqlim al-Tuffah was targeted by strikes, while Israeli artillery targeted the villages of Beit Lif and Yater (Bint Jbeil). Kfar Sir (Nabatieh ) was also shelled.
By approximately 8:15 p.m., a strike near the Nabatieh courthouse caused a minor injury. Soon after, Israeli aircraft targeted the village of Zrarieh (Saida ).
Iraq: Hezbollah Brigades demand withdrawal of all foreign troops
The Hezbollah Brigades, a powerful pro-Iranian armed group in Iraq, on Tuesday denounced “the American presence” in the country and called for all foreign soldiers to leave.
“The malicious American presence is the root of instability in Iraq, and there will be no security as long as the last foreign soldier remains on Iraqi soil,” said the group’s new “security chief,” also known as Kataeb Hezbollah, Abu Mujahid Al-Assaf, in a statement.
UAE could join international effort led by US to secure Strait of Hormuz
The United Arab Emirates could take part in a U.S.-led effort to safeguard shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a senior Emirati official said on Tuesday, though he also said that no formal plan had been agreed and discussions were ongoing.
"We all have a responsibility to ensure the flow of trade, the flow of energy," Anwar Gargash, the diplomatic adviser to the country's president, said at an online event hosted by the American think tank the Council on Foreign Relations.
Gargash also said that once the U.S.-Israeli war with Iran ends, an arrangement would be needed to ensure that Iran cannot use its nuclear, missile or drone programs "to terrorize the region."
Concerns have mounted over the security of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has effectively blocked, and as President Donald Trump has sought to rally countries to deploy warships to escort tankers through the strategic waterway.
Authorities report 125,000 meals distributed daily to displaced people
The Social Development Minister, Haneen Sayed, stated that “125,000 meals are distributed each day, and so far food baskets have been provided to 40,000 families.”
She added, “Distribution continues based on needs and affected areas. It is normal for logistical gaps to appear occasionally, but we address them immediately.”
Iraq: Explosions Heard in Baghdad, attack on US Embassy
Several loud explosions were reported Tuesday evening in the Iraqi capital, Baghdad, according to AFP journalists, with a security official describing a drone and rocket attack on the U.S. embassy.
At a restaurant in Baghdad, where patrons remained unfazed despite the powerful blasts, one witness told AFP they saw explosions in the sky caused by the embassy’s air defense intercepting incoming projectiles.
Another witness, speaking from their balcony, reported a fire near the embassy, which the security official also confirmed, saying it had been caused by a drone.
“The embassy was the target of a drone and rocket attack,” the official said, speaking on condition of anonymity.
Joseph Aoun condemns Israeli strikes, pays tribute to fallen soldiers
President Joseph Aoun called Defense Minister Michel Menassah and Army Commander-in-Chief Rodolph Haykal to offer his condolences following the death of three soldiers in Israeli strikes in southern Lebanon.
He strongly denounced “the targeting of military personnel, even as deadly attacks continue against hundreds of innocent women, men, and children.”
The president emphasized that “targeting the Lebanese army, which plays a unifying role in preserving sovereignty, is entirely at odds with Lebanon’s and the international community’s calls to strengthen its military capabilities, so that it can extend its authority over the entire territory and maintain the monopoly of arms in the hands of the state.”
Hennis-Plasschaert calls for 'a comprehensive roadmap to address Hezbollah’s future'
During a briefing to the U.N. Security Council on the implementation of Resolution 1701 (2006), Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, the U.N. Special Coordinator for Lebanon, warned that “betting on a regional settlement to resolve Lebanon’s problems would be a serious mistake.” She added that “Lebanon must urgently focus on what can be done internally, including the development of a comprehensive roadmap to address Hezbollah’s future.”
According to her, this roadmap must not only “address the group’s weapons, but also its financial networks and social infrastructure,” and involve “all branches and components of the Lebanese state.” She called for “swift and decisive action” on long-delayed objectives, including “a national security strategy, inter-party unity dialogue, improved socio-economic prospects for marginalized communities, and preparation for the post-fighter scenario regarding Hezbollah members.”
“Equally important is, of course, the strengthening of the Lebanese Armed Forces,” Hennis-Plasschaert emphasized. “The harsh reality is that, despite their indispensable role in asserting the state’s monopoly on arms, the Lebanese Armed Forces continue to face a colossal imbalance between the resources available and the missions they are tasked with.” She called for “significant enhancement of international support” to address this gap.
The Special Coordinator concluded by describing the situation as “deeply complex, volatile, and dangerous.” She stressed: “Ongoing military actions will not produce sustainable solutions.”
Praising Lebanon’s openness to direct negotiations with Israel, she added: “Across all religions, sects, and political affiliations, there is a clear willingness to abandon armed resistance in favor of governance, a strong desire to live in a stable country and region, and a deep appetite for building a state that unites rather than maintaining weapons that divide.”
Naim Qassem addresses Hezbollah fighters: 'The final word will be on the battlefield'
(Credit: Screen grab from Al Manar)
A message from Secretary-General Naim Qassem to fighters in southern Lebanon was read by a presenter on the party’s channel, al-Manar.
He praised the fighters for their “heroic” struggle against the enemy.
“You are the sons of this land; they have no means to defeat you,” he told them. He lauded the “courage” of the resistance and the “level of readiness” of its fighters “to face the aggression at the appropriate moment.”
Qassem also recalled that the resistance “waited for 15 months,” giving diplomacy a chance. “The final word will be on the battlefield,” promising “victory," he added.
“We have no choice but to resist the enemy,” he also said.
Update on south Lebanon, according to our correspondent in the region:
Israeli fighter jets carried out strikes on Nabatieh Fawqa, the outskirts of the village toward Mayfadoun, and on Aramta (Jezzine district).
An Israeli airstrike also targeted the village of Ansar (Nabatieh), but the missile failed to explode.
The village of Khiam (Marjayoun) was hit by Israeli artillery fire, and an Israeli helicopter fired heavy machine-gun rounds at residential areas of the village.
Earlier in the day, an Israeli airstrike on the village of Aaba (Nabatieh) killed two people – Hassan Ahmad Haroun and Ali Mohammad Hariri.
One family remains trapped under the rubble after an airstrike hit a building in Harouf (Nabatieh) earlier in the day.
Meanwhile, Hezbollah fired missiles from Lebanon toward Israel.
Iran: Israeli air force targets Basij militia in Tehran again
The Israeli military announced on Tuesday that it had once again targeted members and positions of the Basij militia in Tehran during airstrikes carried out throughout the day.
“In the wake of the elimination of the Basij commander [Gholamreza Soleimani], the air force has attacked in recent hours soldiers and positions of the same militia deployed across the city of Tehran,” the army said in a statement.
The statement was accompanied by a video showing an airstrike, apparently on a checkpoint along a busy road.
Earlier, Israel had announced that it killed Ali Larijani, one of Iran’s highest-ranking officials still alive, and General Gholamreza Soleimani, commander of the Basij – a volunteer Islamic militia tasked with, among other things, internal security in Iran.
Iranian authorities have not immediately confirmed the deaths of either individual.
Israel’s ground operation in Lebanon must not turn into permanent occupation, says Fidan
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan warned that Israel’s ground offensive in Lebanon would cause “heavy losses” and stressed that it “must not turn into a permanent occupation,” according to Al Jazeera.
Middle East war could trigger 'permanent' refugee crisis: Turkey
The ongoing war in the Middle East could create a risk of a “permanent refugee crisis," Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan warned, citing the situation in Lebanon, where more than one million people have been displaced since the conflict began.
"If the war ... spreads, there is a possibility this will turn into a permanent refugee crisis with refugees seeking shelter outside the borders of their countries," the Turkish minister said at a press conference in Ankara, stressing that the war "needs to stop as soon as possible."
Israeli threats of destruction in Lebanon are 'wholly unacceptable,' says UN
The U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights has described as “wholly unacceptable” the statements by Israeli officials threatening to inflict on Lebanon the same level of destruction experienced in Gaza.
Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich had warned in early March that Beirut’s southern suburbs would face the same fate as the Gaza Strip.
“Such rhetoric, coupled with the Israeli military's announcement that it will deploy additional forces and expand its ground incursion, intensify deep fear and anxiety among the Lebanese population,” said Thameen Al-Kheetan, spokesperson for the High Commissioner, from Geneva.
In the same statement, Al-Kheetan added that "these [displacement] orders may amount to forced displacement, prohibited under international humanitarian law."
Strait of Hormuz: Trump criticizes NATO countries for 'foolish mistake'
Trump says Starmer made a 'big mistake' by rejecting his request for help on Iran, Reuters reports.
Turkey condemns 'political assassinations carried out by Israel' in Iran
Turkey has condemned “the political assassinations carried out by Israel” in Iran, following the announcement by the Israeli Defense Minister of the “elimination” of Ali Larijani, the Iranian security chief.
“The political assassinations carried out by Israel, particularly those targeting statesmen and Iranian politicians, constitute illegal acts contrary to the laws of war,” said Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan at a press conference in Ankara.
Update on south Lebanon, according to our correspondent in the region:
An Israeli drone carried out an airstrike on a structure located in an orchard housing Syrian residents in the Zahrani area (Saida district), near the highway at the southwestern edge of the village of Ghazieh. A first missile struck the structure while a Syrian agricultural worker was inside. When his family rushed to the scene, a second rocket hit the building. The number of casualties is unknown.
An Israeli airstrike also targeted Majdal Selm (Bint Jbeil). Israeli aircraft carried out additional strikes on Kafra (Bint Jbeil), Doueir and Harouf (Nabatieh).
The outskirts of Hebbarieh (Hasbaya) and Tayr Harfa (Sour district) came under Israeli artillery fire.
The airstrike that targeted Jibsheet (Nabatieh) earlier in the day killed two people, injured three and left five missing, all from the same Syrian family.
Update on south Lebanon, according to our correspondent in the region:
- Clashes between Hezbollah and the Israeli army have intensified on the southern and eastern outskirts of Khiam (Marjayoun district), amid ongoing Israeli artillery fire.
- A fire broke out at the Robert Nader clothing stores in Jdeidet Marjayoun following the impact of an artillery shell. The shops are located opposite a Lebanese army barracks.
- Heavy missile fire was also launched from Lebanon toward Israel.
- Intense Israeli drone activity has also been observed in the skies over several areas of southern Lebanon.
Israeli army detects 'increased preparations' by Hezbollah
The Israeli army’s Arabic-language spokesperson, Avichay Adraee, warned that in recent hours, “increased preparations have been detected among Hezbollah fighters to launch rocket barrages toward Israeli territory in the coming hours.”
He added that Israel’s air defense systems and forces deployed along the border “remain on maximum alert and at full operational capacity, both offensively and defensively.”
Adraee also called on the public “to remain vigilant and follow the instructions of the Home Front Command.”
He further warned that the Israeli army “will respond forcefully to any threat,” underscoring Israel’s determination in the face of any potential attack by Hezbollah.
Israeli army says it struck rocket launch sites and dozens of Hezbollah targets
The Israeli army’s spokesperson, Avichay Adraee, said on X that Israel had struck rocket launch sites as well as dozens of Hezbollah infrastructures in three different regions of Lebanon. According to Adraee, the Israeli army also recently targeted Hezbollah command centers and several other sites in Beirut’s southern suburbs.
“Three rocket launch sites were also hit in the Bekaa Valley, used by Hezbollah to fire rockets toward Israel,” Adraee said. He also said that “launch platforms and weapons depots intended to be used against Israeli forces and civilians were also struck.”
Strait of Hormuz: Trump says he 'no longer needs help'
Strait of Hormuz: France not ready for 'opening operations' in the 'current context'
Emmanuel Macron stressed that France would not take part in operations to secure the Strait of Hormuz “in the current context” of ongoing “bombardments,” but said it could join naval escorts for ships once the situation becomes “calmer” in this strategic passage for the global economy.
“We are not a party to the conflict, and therefore France will never take part in operations to open or free the Strait of Hormuz in the current context,” the French president said, effectively rejecting a request from Donald Trump, at the start of a defense council meeting at the Élysée Palace.
“However, we believe that once the situation is calmer – that is, once the core of the bombardments has ceased – we are ready, together with other nations, to take responsibility for an escort system,” he added, noting that this would also “require discussions, including with Iran.”
912 killed and 2,221 injured in Lebanon since March 2
The Ministry of Health said that Israeli strikes in Lebanon have killed 912 people and injured 2,221 others since March 2.
Macron: Working with Lebanese authorities to preserve Lebanon’s territorial integrity
“We are working alongside the Lebanese authorities to preserve sovereignty and territorial integrity, and to pursue the fight against Hezbollah without relent,” French President Emmanuel Macron said Tuesday from the Élysée Palace during a defense council meeting.
Update on south Lebanon, according to our correspondent in the region:
In the Nabatieh district, an Israeli drone targeted the village of Jibsheet, killing one person. A drone strike was also reported near the al-Rawabi water shop in Sharqieh, and another in Harouf. Two Israeli airstrikes also targeted the village of Kfar Kila for the first time since the start of the war on March 2.
In the Bint Jbeil district, an Israeli drone targeted a car in Sultanieh.
In the Marjayoun district, Israeli warplanes bombed the village of Taybeh.
1 killed, 9 injured in Israeli strike near the old airport road in Beirut's southern suburbs
The Israeli bombing targeting the area around the old airport road killed at least one person and injured nine others, according to a preliminary report from the Health Ministry.
The last person killed in an airstrike on Beirut's southern suburbs was recorded on Friday, when a raid targeted a car in the Jnah neighborhood.
Lebanese Army confirms two soldiers were killed in Israeli strike on Zibdin
The Lebanese Army confirmed in a brief statement that two of its soldiers were killed in an Israeli strike on Zibdin, in the Nabatieh district, while they were traveling there on a motorcycle.
51 Israeli strikes targeted south Lebanon since midnight
Since the start of the day, Israeli warplanes and drones have carried out at least 51 airstrikes on southern Lebanon, according to our correspondent.
In the last hour, Israeli aircraft conducted two large-scale strikes on the Rahbat neighborhood in the city of Nabatieh. The explosions were heard as far away as Saida.
In addition, Israeli warplanes targeted the Shahour (Sour) area, located between the villages of Choukine, Jibsheet and Zibdin (Nabatieh).
In the same region, Israeli drones also targeted a business in Doueir and an area between Harouf and Jibsheet (Nabatieh).
Hezbollah launches kamikaze drone at Israeli soldiers in Maroun al-Ras, south Lebanon
Hezbollah announced that it launched a suicide drone toward Israeli soldiers in a tent in Maroun al-Ras, Lebanon, at 7:15 a.m. It also claimed to have fired a salvo of rockets at a group of Israeli soldiers near the Khiam (Marjayoun) municipal headquarters at 1 p.m.
The party further claimed responsibility for a rocket strike on the Israeli coastal city of Nahariya earlier in the day.
Netanyahu: By killing Larijani, Israel gives Iranians 'opportunity to take control of their destiny'
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that by killing Ali Larijani, Israel was giving Iranians an "opportunity to take control of their destiny," in a video released by his office.
"This morning, we eliminated Ali Larijani, the leader of a gang of thugs who are actually running Iran," Netanyahu said. "We are shaking this regime in the hope of giving the Iranian people a chance to get rid of it," he added, "and if we persevere, we will give them the opportunity to take control of their destiny."
Two more Lebanese soldiers killed in Israeli strike on Zibdin, Nabatieh
Two more Lebanese soldiers were killed in an Israeli drone strike on Zibdin (Nabatieh) while they were traveling on a motorcycle. The Lebanese army has not yet confirmed their deaths.
Another soldier was killed, and five others were wounded earlier in the day in two separate Israeli strikes on the same area.
Investigation launched in Israel into airstrike that killed Lebanese soldier in Nabatieh
Commenting on the Israeli strike on Ka'akayet al-Jisr, which killed one Lebanese soldier and wounded four others, Israeli army spokesperson Ella Waweya stated that an investigation is underway.
"We maintain that the Israeli army is acting against Hezbollah and not against the Lebanese Army or Lebanese civilians," she said.
Israeli strikes on Lebanon since March 2nd have killed 886 people, including more than 100 children, and the Israeli army has reported eliminating approximately 400 Hezbollah fighters.
'Lebanese government must launch immediate actions against Hezbollah,' warns Israeli foreign minister
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar asserted that Israel had “already won” the war against Iran, believing that the latter had been “considerably weakened.” He added that his country would continue its war against Iran “until the mission is accomplished,” during a press conference with his Estonian counterpart.
He also addressed the Lebanese front, stating that Hezbollah had launched “more than 2,000 missiles and drones toward Israel” in two weeks of escalation, indicating that this was a far greater number than the number of attacks launched from Iran.
“The Lebanese government pledged to disarm Hezbollah during the cease-fire of Nov. 27, 2024, but it hasn’t done so, and now it’s doing nothing to stop Hezbollah attacks and hasn’t even dismissed the Hezbollah-affiliated ministers from the government,” he said.
He added, “We expect the Lebanese state to take immediate action to stop the attacks originating from its territory. If they don’t want to confront Hezbollah, they will be handing Lebanon’s sovereignty and its future over to Iran.”
Third Israeli airstrike on Beirut's southern suburbs targeted old airport road; airport is 'operating normally'
According to local media, the third Israeli airstrike on Beirut's southern suburbs targeted the area around the old road leading to the international airport, known as Imam Khomeini Avenue, near al-Rassoul al-A'azam Hospital.
The head of Civil Aviation, Mohammad Aziz, quickly responded to reports circulating on social media, stating that the airport was operating normally and that the road leading to it was passable.
Mari municipality evacuates displaced people from school after Israeli threats
The municipality of Mari (Hasbaya district) evacuated displaced people last night who had taken refuge in the village school, following threats issued by the Israeli army, according to our correspondent in the South. The displaced people originally came from the neighboring villages of Wazzani and Ain Arab.
Following these threats, the mokhtar of Wazzani, Ahmad al-Mohammad, indicated that approximately 50 families from the village were forced to flee Israel's attacks again, dispersing to several neighboring villages.
South Lebanon: Israeli strike kills worker before funeral in Aitit, fires white phosphorus at Wazzani
The situation in southern Lebanon, according to our correspondent:
— Israeli drone strike kills a worker digging a grave in preparation for a funeral in the Aitit cemetery (Sour district) and injures two of his colleagues.
— Israeli drone strikes also targeted an area between Aaba and Qseibeh, as well as Jibsheet, Deir al-Zahrani, the main road between Mayfadoun and Choukine (Nabatieh) and Kharayeb (Sidon).
— The Israeli army carried out airstrikes against Zibqine (Sour), Kfar Tibnit, Habboush (Nabatieh) and the outskirts of Arzi (Saida).
— The areas around Wazzani and Sarda (Marjayoun) were targeted by white phosphorus artillery fire, alongside Israeli vehicle movements in these two sectors.
Lebanese soldier seriously injured in strike on Doueir in south Lebanon
An Israeli army drone targeted a motorcycle in the village of Doueir (Nabatieh), seriously wounding a Lebanese Army soldier, according to our correspondent in the South.
Earlier in the day, a Lebanese soldier was killed, and four others were wounded in a drone strike that targeted them as they traveled by car and motorcycle in Ka'akayet al-Jisr, also in the Nabatieh district.
Third Israeli airstrike on Beirut's southern suburbs
Beirut's southern suburbs were targeted by Israeli aircraft for the third time this morning. The two previous strikes both targeted the Laylaki neighborhood, according to local media.
Rajji condemns alleged Hezbollah sabotage plot in Kuwait
Lebanese Foreign Minister Joe Rajji expressed his “strong condemnation” of an alleged Hezbollah sabotage plot targeting Kuwait.
This statement comes after the Kuwaiti Interior Ministry announced on Monday the arrest of 16 people — 14 Kuwaitis and two Lebanese nationals — whom it claims are affiliated with Hezbollah.
According to the Ministry, this group “aimed to destabilize the country’s security and recruit individuals.” It added that several weapons, drones equipped with cameras and Morse code communication devices were seized.
Lebanese Army announced a soldier was killed in Israeli strike on south Lebanon
The Lebanese Army announced that one of its soldiers was killed from injuries sustained in an Israeli drone strike that targeted a group of five soldiers traveling in a civilian vehicle on a road in Ka'akayet al-Jisr (Nabatieh district).
The four other wounded soldiers, one of whom is in serious condition, remain hospitalized.
'Not the right time for peace': Mojtaba Khamenei rejects any cease-fire proposal, according to Iranian official
Iran’s new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, has rejected any cessation of the ongoing regional war and dismissed a proposal to open negotiations on a potential cease-fire with the United States, which was reportedly conveyed to Tehran by two intermediary countries, according to a senior Iranian official quoted by Reuters.
Khamenei’s position in favor of retaliation against the United States and Israel was “very firm and very serious” during his first meeting dedicated to foreign policy, the official said on condition of anonymity, without specifying whether the leader attended in person, given that he was reportedly wounded in an Israeli airstrike.
The official also stated that the supreme leader declared that “it is not the right time for peace until the United States and Israel are brought to their knees, accept defeat and pay reparations.”
In addition, three sources had previously told Reuters on March 14 that the U.S. administration had dismissed efforts by its partners in the Middle East to revive talks with Tehran to end the war.
Strikes in Iran: Israel targeted the military chief of Palestinian Islamic Jihad
An Israeli airstrike targeted Akram al-Ajouri, one of the top leaders of Palestinian Islamic Jihad, in Iran overnight, an Israeli military official announced.
Ajouri is the head of the Quds Force, the movement's military wing, which operates primarily in the Gaza Strip. "He was staying in Iran, where he usually resided ...We don't yet have any data" on the results of the strike, the military official told reporters on condition of anonymity.
Israeli attacks have continued since this morning, killing at least 3 people in south Lebanon
- At least three people were killed in an Israeli airstrike targeting the town of Bint Jbeil in southern Lebanon, according to the state-run National News Agency. Several others were wounded in the attacks and taken to the hospital, the official agency reported.
- In the past hour, the Israeli army also carried out strikes on the villages of Jermaq (Jezzine district), Yohmor al-Shaqif (Nabatieh), Aitit (Sour), where three people were injured by two successive drone strikes, Jmaijmeh and Burj Qalaway (Bint Jbeil), where the targeted site is located near an orphanage.
- Continued Israeli artillery fire also targeted the towns of Kafra (Bint Jbeil), the outskirts of Debbine (Marjayoun), and near the Marj al-Khoukh camp.
- Further artillery fire targeting the town of Braasheet (Bint Jbeil) prompted the intervention of rescue workers from the Islamic Health Committee, affiliated with Hezbollah, who are working to clear roads and remove debris blocking traffic in the village.
Tribute to Iranian marines killed in action was posted by Ali Larijani's X account
Shortly after Israel's announcement that Ali Larijani was killed in Israeli strikes on Tehran last night, a message was posted on his X account. It is a handwritten letter paying tribute to Iranian marines killed in action. This message was posted on the occasion of a funeral for Iranian sailors, and Larijani praises their "sacrifices" in it.
Another Israeli strike on Beirut's southern suburbs
A second strike targeted Beirut's southern suburbs, according to local media reports, following an initial strike a few minutes earlier on the Laylaki district.
Lebanese Army confirms Israeli drone strike near Nabatieh injured 5 soldiers
The Lebanese Army confirmed in a statement that an Israeli drone strike injured five of its soldiers, “two of them seriously,” this morning, while they were driving their cars and motorcycles in Qaaqaaiyet al-Jisr (Nabatieh), as previously reported by our correspondent.
The army stated that the soldiers were transferred to hospitals in the region.
Israel announces Ali Larijani was killed
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz claimed that Ali Larijani, secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, was killed overnight in an Israeli strike on Tehran.
Katz also confirmed the death of Basij commander Gholam Reza Soleimani in a separate strike on the Iranian capital.
Israel claims it destroyed a tunnel used to store weapons in Kafra
In a statement published by its spokesperson Avichay Adraee, the Israeli army claimed a strike on Kafra, in the Bint Jbeil district, which it claimed targeted a “large underground infrastructure” used to store weapons, including cruise missiles and hundreds of rockets.
Adraee added that since the beginning of the week, Hezbollah “headquarters and infrastructure” have also been targeted in Beirut, whose southern suburbs have been struck repeatedly since the weekend.
Israeli strike on Beirut’s southern suburbs
An Israeli strike hit Beirut’s southern suburbs shortly after a “warning strike” on a building in Laylaki, according to local media.
Israel also claims it killed Basij commander in another strike in Tehran
In addition to targeting Ali Larijani, the Israeli military also claimed to have killed Gholam Reza Soleimani, commander of the Basij paramilitary organization for the past six years, in another nighttime strike in Tehran.
According to a statement from the military, its air force conducted a "precise strike" in the heart of the Iranian capital, "based on intelligence provided by military intelligence."
This operation is part of a series of actions that, according to the military, have already killed "dozens of senior officials" linked to the Iranian security apparatus, constituting "a further blow" to its command structures.
The Basij, a paramilitary organization affiliated with the Iranian armed forces, played a central role in the repression of the recent popular uprising in Iran, during which several thousand protesters were killed.
The Israeli army added that it "will continue its operations against the leaders" of the Iranian regime and its security apparatus.
Israel targeted Ali Larijani in its overnight strikes against Iran
The Israeli military reportedly targeted Ali Larijani, a key figure in the Iranian state apparatus, during its latest wave of bombings carried out overnight Monday into Tuesday across Iran.
The information was reported by several Israeli media outlets, citing military officials, who stated that it is not yet known whether Larijani was killed or wounded in the attack.
Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, the highest decision-making body on defense and foreign policy in the Islamic Republic, Larijani was also part of the triumvirate tasked with overseeing the transition of power after the assassination of former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, until the appointment of his son, Mojtaba Khamenei, who is also reportedly wounded.
Israeli army chief of staff Eyal Zamir, for his part, spoke of "significant results" achieved overnight that could "influence the conduct of operations," the Times of Israel reported.
The newspaper specified that another Israeli strike targeted "several officials linked to the Palestinian front," including leaders of Islamic Jihad in Iran.
New strikes heard in Tehran; Israel claims responsibility for several attacks against 'Iranian regime targets'
Several explosions rocked the Iranian capital Tuesday morning, according to AFP, after a night of rain and thunderstorms marked by intense blasts, on the 18th day of the Israeli-American war against Iran.
The Israeli army claimed responsibility for a new "large-scale offensive" carried out by "dozens of fighter jets" against "Iranian regime targets in Tehran, Shiraz and Tabriz."
Among these targets were the headquarters of the Basij, the Iranian regime's security apparatus, as well as the headquarters of the Intelligence Ministry in Tehran.
Sites used for storing and launching drones, ballistic missiles and air defense systems were also attacked, the statement added.
Lebanese soldiers targeted by Israeli drone were returning from duty at time of attack
The Lebanese soldiers targeted by two Israeli drone strikes were not on patrol at the time of the attack, but were returning from duty, according to the latest information from our correspondent.
They were in a civilian car, and another soldier was riding a motorcycle alongside the vehicle when the attack occurred. They were all in uniform. Of the five wounded, one is in critical condition.
Two Israeli drone strikes target Lebanese Army patrol
An Israeli drone twice targeted a Lebanese Army patrol deployed in the village of Ka'akayet al-Jisr (Nabatieh district), reports our correspondent. Five soldiers were wounded in the attack.
This is not the first time Lebanese soldiers have been targeted by Israel since the escalation of the conflict between Hezbollah and Israel on March 2, even though the army is not involved in the fighting. Last week, two soldiers were killed in another drone strike in Sowaneh (Marjayoun) and in a bombing in Braasheet (Bint Jbeil).
Man abducted overnight by Israel in Kfar Shuba now freed
Qassem Qadri, the man who was abducted overnight by the Israeli army in Kfar Shuba, southern Lebanon, has been freed, reports the state-run National News Agency.
Qadri was kidnapped from his home during an infiltration by Israeli soldiers, who searched several houses in the village.
Rocket barrages fired toward Israel from southern Lebanon
According to our correspondent, several rockets were fired this morning before 9 a.m. from southern Lebanon toward Israeli territory.
Hezbollah has not yet claimed responsibility on its Telegram channel, despite having claimed seven attacks against Israeli targets since midnight.
Israeli army announces 36th Division 'began operations' in ground offensive in southern Lebanon
The Israeli army announced that troops from its "36th Division" have begun operations in southern Lebanon as part of the ground offensive launched by Israel, which threatens to invade parts of the country's South.
"Forces of the 36th Division have joined the concentrated and expanded ground operation in southern Lebanon ... in order to extend the forward defense zone in northern Israel ... and create an additional layer of security for residents of the north," the division wrote in a statement on X, specifying that it is operating "alongside the 91st Division."
The latter had already announced a few days earlier the redeployment of the Golani Brigade from the Gaza Strip to southern Lebanon.
Woman injured in strike on Dohat Aramoun, south of Beirut
The Lebanese Health Ministry announced that the dawn strike carried out by Israeli aircraft on a residential building in Dohat Aramoun, south of Beirut, injured one person, an Ethiopian woman.
South Lebanon: Building threatened, then struck by Israel in Saida
Approximately an hour and a half after issuing an evacuation order, the Israeli army bombed a building located in the village of Arab al-Jal, in the Saida district of South Lebanon, the first such attack since the start of the war, reports our correspondent.
This building was described as a "Hezbollah facility" in a statement published on X by the Arabic-language spokesperson for the Israeli army.
In addition, the Israeli air force carried out two other strikes against the towns of Bint Jbeil and Khiam, and another on the outskirts of Debbine (Marjayoun).
Israeli strike on Yohmor, in Bekaa
Furthermore, according to our correspondent in the Bekaa Valley, an Israeli airstrike targeted the village of Yohmor overnight.
No casualty figures were immediately available.
Clashes between Hezbollah, Israeli army in Taybeh
Overnight, Hezbollah reported several attacks targeting Israeli army advances in southern Lebanon, the day after announcing a ground offensive "inspired by the one conducted in Gaza."
Fighting was reported in Taybeh, in the Marjayoun district. Hezbollah said it targeted a Merkava tank with a guided missile at 1:45 a.m. in the Taybeh area.
"The Israeli army evacuated its losses under a smokescreen, then the area was targeted again with shells and rockets," according to a statement from the party.
Fifteen minutes later, another tank was "directly hit in the same area, bringing the number of tanks targeted since Monday evening to five," according to the party.
Hezbollah also announced that at 12:45 a.m., it had confronted a gathering of Israeli soldiers in Marjayoun and another south of Maroun al-Ras with a salvo of rockets.
At 1:45 a.m., the party said it had targeted a gathering of Israeli soldiers on Tallet Hamames Hill, south of Khiam, which has been occupied since the ground offensive in the fall of 2024.
Furthermore, Hezbollah claimed responsibility for rocket fire on the al-Assi military position in Israeli territory, opposite Mais al-Jabal, and in Misgav Am.
Israeli strikes this morning on Dbaal and Khiam in South Lebanon
Since Tuesday morning, fighter jets have carried out strikes on Dbaal, in the Sour district, Habboush (Nabatieh district), and Khiam (Marjayoun).
Israeli strikes also targeted Dohat Aramoun, a town south of Beirut in the Aley district, at dawn. This village has been bombed several times since March 2.
Two Israeli strikes also targeted the southern suburbs of Beirut overnight, near the Kafa'at roundabout on the Hadi Nasrallah highway, and near al-Sahel Hospital in Haret Hreik.
The Israeli army claimed to have conducted "a series of simultaneous strikes" in Tehran and Beirut.
Overnight Israeli strikes in Jezzine in south Lebanon
Throughout Monday night into Tuesday, the Israeli army continued its airstrikes and artillery fire, according to local and security sources cited by our correspondent.
- It carried out two strikes on the Jabal al-Rafih heights in the Rihan hills and two more on the al-Aroush quarry, which had already been targeted the previous day, in Aramta (Jezzine district).
- Airstrikes also targeted Deir Kifa, Qana (though the missile failed to explode), Majadel and Zibqine (Sour), as well as Kafra and Yater (Bint Jbeil district).
- Israeli artillery shelled Khiam (Marjayoun district) and neighborhoods of Aita al-Shaab (Bint Jbeil) with several shells.
- An Israeli airstrike targeted Taybeh (Marjayoun), accompanied by artillery and heavy machine-gun fire from Israeli positions located in Lebanese territory, in Taybeh.
- The Lebanese Army evacuated families still in Siddiqine (Sour district) after receiving Israeli calls demanding the evacuation of the village, located south of the Zahrani River, in an area threatened by Israel.
Overnight, Israel abducted Kfar Shuba resident in south Lebanon
As the Israeli army continued its airstrikes on southern Lebanon overnight and advanced along several axes, infantry soldiers entered Kfar Shuba, in the eastern sector, around 1:30 a.m. and searched several houses before abducting a resident, Qassem Qadri, from his home.
The soldiers then withdrew to their positions in the contested hills above this village in the Hasbaya district.
This is the first such abduction since the start of the Israeli offensive on March 2. A similar abduction, however, took place on the night of Feb. 8-9, when Israeli soldiers kidnapped an official of Jamaa Islamiya, a Hamas ally in Lebanon, in Hebbarieh, near Kfar Shuba.
We are starting our live coverage of the Middle East war today, with a particular focus on the escalation on the Lebanese front, now in its fourteenth day.
In this live feed, we will be following the events in Lebanon, the day after Israel announced a ground offensive "that should be modeled on the one in Gaza," according to the Israeli Defense Minister. We will also report on developments in the Middle East.
➡️ For all the developments from Monday, see our live coverage from yesterday here.
Israeli army issues evacuation notice to residents of Aaqbiye building
The Arabic-speaking spokesperson for the Israeli army, Avichay Adraee, called on residents of a building in Aaqbiye, southern Lebanon, to evacuate and move “north of the Zahrani River.”
The building was marked in red on a map attached to his message. “You are near a site used by Hezbollah,” he warned.
The structure is located directly across from a gas station.
U.S. embassy in Iraq targeted again
A drone struck the U.S. embassy in Baghdad Wednesday morning, a security source told AFP, with a journalist reporting having heard an explosion.
“A drone directly hit” the embassy, which has already been targeted multiple times in recent days, the source said, without specifying whether there was any damage. Another security official added that the drone fell “near the embassy’s security barrier.”
The Kuwaiti military says it is intercepting rockets and drones
6 drones intercepted in Saudi Arabia, says defense ministry
⚡ 2 Israeli strikes in central Beirut, 3 in southern suburbs
An Israeli strike hit a building in Zokak al-Blat in central Beirut, and another targeted the Basta district around 1:30 a.m., while three more strikes hit the city’s southern suburbs, according to local channel al-Jadeed.
Ambulances were dispatched to the areas affected in Beirut.
These neighborhoods had already been targeted after Israeli threats against specific buildings on March 12.
2 killed near Tel Aviv in Iranian missile strikes
Two people were killed in Iranian missile strikes near Tel Aviv, Israeli emergency services reported, according to AFP.
⚡ Two Israeli strikes hit central Beirut and 3 target the southern suburbs
An Israeli airstrike targeted a building in Beirut’s Zoqaq al-Blat neighborhood, and another strike targeted the Basta neighborhood around 1:30 a.m., while three additional strikes hit the southern suburbs of the capital, local channel al-Jadeed reported. Ambulances were dispatched to the affected areas in Beirut.
Israel had carried out strikes on these neighborhoods after issuing evacuation notices on these buildings on March 12.
Israel: 2 killed by Iranian strikes near Tel Aviv, say rescue services
Israeli rescue services, cited by AFP, reported that two people were killed in Iranian missile strikes near Tel Aviv.
'Several' Israeli sites hit by Iranian strikes; 2 seriously injured
According to Israeli police and health sources reported by AFP, Iranian strikes hit “several” sites in Israel, leaving two people seriously injured.
Explosions heard in Jerusalem after Iranian missiles detected
At least two explosions were heard in Jerusalem early Wednesday, shortly after the Israeli army reported a new salvo of missiles fired from Iran.
AFP journalists heard the detonations and saw two bright flashes in the sky, moments after the army said its air defense systems were activated “to intercept the threat” from the Iranian missiles.
Israeli army says it carried out preventive strikes in Lebanon
The Israeli army said Tuesday evening it carried out preventive strikes in Lebanon targeting Hezbollah launchers, following a series of air raid alerts in northern Israel.
“Over the past hour, the air force struck launchers [rockets or missiles] and Hezbollah militants across Lebanon, as part of efforts to disrupt and prevent fire toward Israel,” the army said in a statement.
Earlier, it said it had “detected an intensification of Hezbollah’s preparations” to launch rocket barrages toward Israel in the coming hours.
Hezbollah says it targeted Israeli tank and bulldozer in Taybeh
Hezbollah said in a statement issued after midnight, that it targeted an Israeli Merkava tank and a D9 bulldozer in the village of Taybeh (Marjayoun), claiming it “directly hit its targets,” the state-run National News Agency reports.
The group added that it has “destroyed seven vehicles since last night [Monday to Tuesday].”
Dubai reports ‘successful’ air defense interceptions
The Dubai Media Office said authorities in the city have confirmed that sounds heard across parts of the city were the result of “successful air defence interception operations.”
The United Arab Emirates Defense Ministry also said that the country’s air defense systems were “responding to incoming missile and drone threats from Iran."
Qaraoun municipality: missile that hit house fails to explode
The municipality of Qaraoun, in West Bekaa, said late Tuesday night that an Israeli missile that struck a house in the village did not explode and caused no injuries, according to our correspondent.
According to the municipality, “the house of Mohammad Houssam Hallak was targeted. The missile pierced the roof but did not detonate, and the family is safe.”
Residents have been urged to stay at least 300 meters away from the house for 72 hours, in line with security guidelines.
Hezbollah launches a new salvo of rockets toward northern Israel, local media report.
Source tells Reuters Israeli tank fire behind UNIFIL attack
According to a Western military source cited by Reuters, preliminary findings from an internal U.N. investigation indicate that Israeli tank fire struck a UNIFIL position in southern Lebanon on March 6, wounding Ghanaian peacekeepers and highlighting the growing risks linked to the intensification of Israeli operations.
According to the source, the preliminary conclusions led by UNIFIL’s Force Commander Reserve with support from explosive ordnance disposal specialists indicated that three strikes at the al-Qawzah base were direct hits from the main gun of an Israeli battle tank.
The rounds used were 120 mm M339 HE-MP-T shells, the source added.
"Israeli involvement in the attack against UNIFIL is undeniable, given that these munitions are manufactured by Israel Military Industries (IMI)," the source said.
The findings of UNIFIL's probe have not been previously reported. UNIFIL had said on March 6 that Ghanaian peacekeepers were wounded amid heavy firing and called the incident "unacceptable," but did not say at the time who was responsible.
"That investigation is not yet complete. Once it is finalized, it will be shared with the parties, per usual practice," said UNIFIL spokesperson Kandice Ardiel.
Iran confirms Ali Larijani killed
Iran has confirmed that its top security official, Ali Larijani, has been killed, according to Iranian media reports cited by Reuters.
Read more here.
Israel issues warning to residents of Sour
The Israeli army’s Arabic-language spokesperson, Avichay Adraee, issued an evacuation notice to residents of Sour, specifically in Shabriha, Hammadiyeh, Jal al-Bahr, Zaqouq Mifdi, Buss, Maashouk, Burj al-Shamali, Nabaa, al-Hosh, Rashidiyeh, and Ain Baal.
“For your safety, we urge you to evacuate your homes immediately in accordance with the areas indicated on the map (attached to my post on X), and to move north of the Zahrani River,” Adraee said. “Your presence near Hezbollah elements, facilities, or military assets puts your life at risk. Any building used by Hezbollah for military purposes may be targeted.”
Khaybar 1: Hezbollah claims multiple attacks on Israeli army
In two statements issued as part of its “Khaybar 1” operation, Hezbollah said it carried out several attacks against the Israeli army on Tuesday evening.
The group said it fired rockets at around 8:30 p.m. toward Kiryat Shmona, Metula, al-Malikiyah, Dishon, Avivim, Kfar Blum, Ramot Naftali, Zar’it, Shtula, Even Menachem, and Beit Hillel.
It also said it targeted at the same time the Meron base, used for surveillance and the management of air operations, as well as another base in Safed and the Northern Command headquarters in the same city.
Separately, Hezbollah claimed an attack at 3:45 p.m. against Israeli soldiers in the village of Markaba, in the Sour district, on Lebanese territory.
Latest developments in the Bekaa, according to our correspondent:
Shortly after 9:00 p.m., airstrikes targeted the city of Baalbeck
Around 9:20 p.m., a strike targeted a house in the village of Qaraoun (West Bekaa).
The Israeli army also carried out strikes in the Ras al-Ain area, near Baalbeck, causing injuries.
Israeli strikes continue in southern Lebanon
Shortly before 9:00 p.m., and again around 10:00 p.m., three strikes hit the village of Ghassanieh (Saida district), wounding two people.
Around 9:15 p.m., multiple strikes simultaneously targeted Hanine (Bint Jbeil), Zifta (Nabatieh), Qantara and Khiam (Marjayoun), Touline and Kabrikha (Marjayoun), as well as the Tilal Jabbour area (Jezzine).
At approximately 9:30 p.m., Israeli strikes hit Sour and Ainata (Bint Jbeil district).
Shortly before 9:40 p.m., the town of Bint Jbeil was hit by Israeli drones.
Around 9:45 p.m., strikes targeted Sour district, including Shaaitiyeh and Rmadiyeh.
Hezbollah announces the launch of 'Khaybar 1' operations
Hezbollah announced the launch of operations codenamed “Khaybar 1.” The group had previously declared the start of “Khaybar” operations on Oct. 1, 2024, days after the assassination of its former leader, Hassan Nasrallah, on Sept. 27. The earlier operation targeted sites near Tel Aviv, roughly 100 kilometers from the Blue Line.
The name references the Battle of Khaybar in 628 CE – six years after the Hijra –when the Prophet Muhammad and his companions confronted a Jewish community in the oasis of Khaybar, in present-day northwestern Saudi Arabia.
Iran selects 'allied' ships allowed to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, tracking data shows
Iran is selecting ships from “allied” countries that are permitted to transit the Strait of Hormuz, whose passage has been tightly controlled by the Islamic Republic in retaliation for U.S.-Israeli strikes launched in late February, tracking data showed Tuesday.
At least five vessels passed through the strategic waterway – which normally carries around 20 percent of the world’s crude oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) – via Iranian waters on March 15 and 16, according to maritime intelligence firm Windward in an analysis report.
“This new route illustrates how Iran’s selective blockade has evolved to allow the transit of its allies and supporters,” the company said.
Hezbollah fires rockets toward Israel, Israeli media report
Hezbollah has launched dozens of rockets from Lebanon toward northern Israel, Israeli media report. No injuries were reported, but damage occurred from debris falling from intercepted rockets, according to emergency services.
Israel halts UNICEF aid from Egypt over 'smuggling' concerns
Israel announced the suspension of UNICEF aid shipments bound for the Gaza Strip from Egypt, after detecting an “attempted smuggling” within humanitarian aid coordinated by the U.N. agency.
The attempt was uncovered on Tuesday at the Kerem Shalom crossing between Israel and Gaza, where aid coming from Egypt is inspected, according to COGAT, the Israeli Defense Ministry body responsible for civil affairs in the occupied Palestinian territories.
In a statement, COGAT said the suspension followed “an attempted smuggling of tobacco and nicotine in aid shipments from Egypt coordinated by UNICEF,” the United Nations children’s agency.
Revolutionary Guards confirm death of Bassij paramilitary leader
On Tuesday, the Iranian Revolutionary Guards confirmed the death of General Gholamreza Soleimani, head of the Bassid paramilitary organization, which had earlier been announced by the Israeli military.
According to their official website, Sepah News, the Guards said the senior official “fell as a martyr during a terrorist attack by the U.S.-Zionist enemy.”
Israel stated that it had killed Soleimani, the commander of the volunteer force responsible in part for internal security in Iran, in a strike on Tehran, along with Ali Larijani, head of the Supreme National Security Council, though Larijani’s death has not been confirmed.
Israeli army says it is targeting Hezbollah infrastructure across Lebanon
The Arabic-language spokesperson of the Israeli army, Avichay Adraee, stated that “in recent minutes, Hezbollah has fired rockets toward multiple areas in Israel.”
“In parallel with interception efforts, the Israeli Air Force is currently targeting launch platforms and other Hezbollah infrastructure across Lebanon,” he added, assuring that the Israeli army “will not allow its citizens to be harmed and will respond forcefully to any threat against the State of Israel.”
Separately, the Israeli army said on its X account that it would continue “to act decisively against the terrorist organization Hezbollah, which has chosen to operate under the auspices of the Iranian terrorist regime.”
Iranian Parliament Speaker warns Strait of Hormuz won’t return to pre-war conditions, AFP reports
Israeli strike on Harouf kills 5
An Israeli strike on a building in Harouf (Nabatieh) earlier in the day killed five people, our correspondent reports. Rescue teams are continuing to search for four others still trapped under the rubble.
Hezbollah claims attack on Israeli soldiers
In a statement issued around 8:20 p.m., Hezbollah said it had targeted “a gathering of Israeli enemy soldiers in the Khirbet al-Manara area, opposite the Lebanese village of Houla, with a salvo of rockets.”
Update on south Lebanon, according to our correspondent in the region:
At around 7:00 p.m., Israeli fighter jets targeted a building in Nabatieh as well as a vehicle, and carried out an airstrike on Doueir (Nabatieh district).
After 7:15 p.m., several Israeli strikes hit Yahoun and Braasheet (Bint Jbeil), Taybeh (Marjayoun), Qalawieh, Touline, and the areas of Wadi Hojeir, Khirbet Silm, and Tibnin (Nabatieh), as well as Ali Taher, Kfar Tibnit, and Maydafoun.
At around 7:45 p.m., a drone struck a building in the Maydan neighborhood of Nabatieh. Shortly afterward, the village of Arab Salim in Iqlim al-Tuffah was targeted by strikes, while Israeli artillery targeted the villages of Beit Lif and Yater (Bint Jbeil). Kfar Sir (Nabatieh ) was also shelled.
By approximately 8:15 p.m., a strike near the Nabatieh courthouse caused a minor injury. Soon after, Israeli aircraft targeted the village of Zrarieh (Saida ).
Iraq: Hezbollah Brigades demand withdrawal of all foreign troops
The Hezbollah Brigades, a powerful pro-Iranian armed group in Iraq, on Tuesday denounced “the American presence” in the country and called for all foreign soldiers to leave.
“The malicious American presence is the root of instability in Iraq, and there will be no security as long as the last foreign soldier remains on Iraqi soil,” said the group’s new “security chief,” also known as Kataeb Hezbollah, Abu Mujahid Al-Assaf, in a statement.
UAE could join international effort led by US to secure Strait of Hormuz
The United Arab Emirates could take part in a U.S.-led effort to safeguard shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a senior Emirati official said on Tuesday, though he also said that no formal plan had been agreed and discussions were ongoing.
"We all have a responsibility to ensure the flow of trade, the flow of energy," Anwar Gargash, the diplomatic adviser to the country's president, said at an online event hosted by the American think tank the Council on Foreign Relations.
Gargash also said that once the U.S.-Israeli war with Iran ends, an arrangement would be needed to ensure that Iran cannot use its nuclear, missile or drone programs "to terrorize the region."
Concerns have mounted over the security of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has effectively blocked, and as President Donald Trump has sought to rally countries to deploy warships to escort tankers through the strategic waterway.
Authorities report 125,000 meals distributed daily to displaced people
The Social Development Minister, Haneen Sayed, stated that “125,000 meals are distributed each day, and so far food baskets have been provided to 40,000 families.”
She added, “Distribution continues based on needs and affected areas. It is normal for logistical gaps to appear occasionally, but we address them immediately.”
Iraq: Explosions Heard in Baghdad, attack on US Embassy
Several loud explosions were reported Tuesday evening in the Iraqi capital, Baghdad, according to AFP journalists, with a security official describing a drone and rocket attack on the U.S. embassy.
At a restaurant in Baghdad, where patrons remained unfazed despite the powerful blasts, one witness told AFP they saw explosions in the sky caused by the embassy’s air defense intercepting incoming projectiles.
Another witness, speaking from their balcony, reported a fire near the embassy, which the security official also confirmed, saying it had been caused by a drone.
“The embassy was the target of a drone and rocket attack,” the official said, speaking on condition of anonymity.
Joseph Aoun condemns Israeli strikes, pays tribute to fallen soldiers
President Joseph Aoun called Defense Minister Michel Menassah and Army Commander-in-Chief Rodolph Haykal to offer his condolences following the death of three soldiers in Israeli strikes in southern Lebanon.
He strongly denounced “the targeting of military personnel, even as deadly attacks continue against hundreds of innocent women, men, and children.”
The president emphasized that “targeting the Lebanese army, which plays a unifying role in preserving sovereignty, is entirely at odds with Lebanon’s and the international community’s calls to strengthen its military capabilities, so that it can extend its authority over the entire territory and maintain the monopoly of arms in the hands of the state.”
Hennis-Plasschaert calls for 'a comprehensive roadmap to address Hezbollah’s future'
During a briefing to the U.N. Security Council on the implementation of Resolution 1701 (2006), Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, the U.N. Special Coordinator for Lebanon, warned that “betting on a regional settlement to resolve Lebanon’s problems would be a serious mistake.” She added that “Lebanon must urgently focus on what can be done internally, including the development of a comprehensive roadmap to address Hezbollah’s future.”
According to her, this roadmap must not only “address the group’s weapons, but also its financial networks and social infrastructure,” and involve “all branches and components of the Lebanese state.” She called for “swift and decisive action” on long-delayed objectives, including “a national security strategy, inter-party unity dialogue, improved socio-economic prospects for marginalized communities, and preparation for the post-fighter scenario regarding Hezbollah members.”
“Equally important is, of course, the strengthening of the Lebanese Armed Forces,” Hennis-Plasschaert emphasized. “The harsh reality is that, despite their indispensable role in asserting the state’s monopoly on arms, the Lebanese Armed Forces continue to face a colossal imbalance between the resources available and the missions they are tasked with.” She called for “significant enhancement of international support” to address this gap.
The Special Coordinator concluded by describing the situation as “deeply complex, volatile, and dangerous.” She stressed: “Ongoing military actions will not produce sustainable solutions.”
Praising Lebanon’s openness to direct negotiations with Israel, she added: “Across all religions, sects, and political affiliations, there is a clear willingness to abandon armed resistance in favor of governance, a strong desire to live in a stable country and region, and a deep appetite for building a state that unites rather than maintaining weapons that divide.”
Naim Qassem addresses Hezbollah fighters: 'The final word will be on the battlefield'
(Credit: Screen grab from Al Manar)
A message from Secretary-General Naim Qassem to fighters in southern Lebanon was read by a presenter on the party’s channel, al-Manar.
He praised the fighters for their “heroic” struggle against the enemy.
“You are the sons of this land; they have no means to defeat you,” he told them. He lauded the “courage” of the resistance and the “level of readiness” of its fighters “to face the aggression at the appropriate moment.”
Qassem also recalled that the resistance “waited for 15 months,” giving diplomacy a chance. “The final word will be on the battlefield,” promising “victory," he added.
“We have no choice but to resist the enemy,” he also said.
Update on south Lebanon, according to our correspondent in the region:
Israeli fighter jets carried out strikes on Nabatieh Fawqa, the outskirts of the village toward Mayfadoun, and on Aramta (Jezzine district).
An Israeli airstrike also targeted the village of Ansar (Nabatieh), but the missile failed to explode.
The village of Khiam (Marjayoun) was hit by Israeli artillery fire, and an Israeli helicopter fired heavy machine-gun rounds at residential areas of the village.
Earlier in the day, an Israeli airstrike on the village of Aaba (Nabatieh) killed two people – Hassan Ahmad Haroun and Ali Mohammad Hariri.
One family remains trapped under the rubble after an airstrike hit a building in Harouf (Nabatieh) earlier in the day.
Meanwhile, Hezbollah fired missiles from Lebanon toward Israel.
Iran: Israeli air force targets Basij militia in Tehran again
The Israeli military announced on Tuesday that it had once again targeted members and positions of the Basij militia in Tehran during airstrikes carried out throughout the day.
“In the wake of the elimination of the Basij commander [Gholamreza Soleimani], the air force has attacked in recent hours soldiers and positions of the same militia deployed across the city of Tehran,” the army said in a statement.
The statement was accompanied by a video showing an airstrike, apparently on a checkpoint along a busy road.
Earlier, Israel had announced that it killed Ali Larijani, one of Iran’s highest-ranking officials still alive, and General Gholamreza Soleimani, commander of the Basij – a volunteer Islamic militia tasked with, among other things, internal security in Iran.
Iranian authorities have not immediately confirmed the deaths of either individual.
Israel’s ground operation in Lebanon must not turn into permanent occupation, says Fidan
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan warned that Israel’s ground offensive in Lebanon would cause “heavy losses” and stressed that it “must not turn into a permanent occupation,” according to Al Jazeera.
Middle East war could trigger 'permanent' refugee crisis: Turkey
The ongoing war in the Middle East could create a risk of a “permanent refugee crisis," Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan warned, citing the situation in Lebanon, where more than one million people have been displaced since the conflict began.
"If the war ... spreads, there is a possibility this will turn into a permanent refugee crisis with refugees seeking shelter outside the borders of their countries," the Turkish minister said at a press conference in Ankara, stressing that the war "needs to stop as soon as possible."
Israeli threats of destruction in Lebanon are 'wholly unacceptable,' says UN
The U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights has described as “wholly unacceptable” the statements by Israeli officials threatening to inflict on Lebanon the same level of destruction experienced in Gaza.
Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich had warned in early March that Beirut’s southern suburbs would face the same fate as the Gaza Strip.
“Such rhetoric, coupled with the Israeli military's announcement that it will deploy additional forces and expand its ground incursion, intensify deep fear and anxiety among the Lebanese population,” said Thameen Al-Kheetan, spokesperson for the High Commissioner, from Geneva.
In the same statement, Al-Kheetan added that "these [displacement] orders may amount to forced displacement, prohibited under international humanitarian law."
Strait of Hormuz: Trump criticizes NATO countries for 'foolish mistake'
Trump says Starmer made a 'big mistake' by rejecting his request for help on Iran, Reuters reports.
Turkey condemns 'political assassinations carried out by Israel' in Iran
Turkey has condemned “the political assassinations carried out by Israel” in Iran, following the announcement by the Israeli Defense Minister of the “elimination” of Ali Larijani, the Iranian security chief.
“The political assassinations carried out by Israel, particularly those targeting statesmen and Iranian politicians, constitute illegal acts contrary to the laws of war,” said Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan at a press conference in Ankara.
Update on south Lebanon, according to our correspondent in the region:
An Israeli drone carried out an airstrike on a structure located in an orchard housing Syrian residents in the Zahrani area (Saida district), near the highway at the southwestern edge of the village of Ghazieh. A first missile struck the structure while a Syrian agricultural worker was inside. When his family rushed to the scene, a second rocket hit the building. The number of casualties is unknown.
An Israeli airstrike also targeted Majdal Selm (Bint Jbeil). Israeli aircraft carried out additional strikes on Kafra (Bint Jbeil), Doueir and Harouf (Nabatieh).
The outskirts of Hebbarieh (Hasbaya) and Tayr Harfa (Sour district) came under Israeli artillery fire.
The airstrike that targeted Jibsheet (Nabatieh) earlier in the day killed two people, injured three and left five missing, all from the same Syrian family.
Update on south Lebanon, according to our correspondent in the region:
- Clashes between Hezbollah and the Israeli army have intensified on the southern and eastern outskirts of Khiam (Marjayoun district), amid ongoing Israeli artillery fire.
- A fire broke out at the Robert Nader clothing stores in Jdeidet Marjayoun following the impact of an artillery shell. The shops are located opposite a Lebanese army barracks.
- Heavy missile fire was also launched from Lebanon toward Israel.
- Intense Israeli drone activity has also been observed in the skies over several areas of southern Lebanon.
Israeli army detects 'increased preparations' by Hezbollah
The Israeli army’s Arabic-language spokesperson, Avichay Adraee, warned that in recent hours, “increased preparations have been detected among Hezbollah fighters to launch rocket barrages toward Israeli territory in the coming hours.”
He added that Israel’s air defense systems and forces deployed along the border “remain on maximum alert and at full operational capacity, both offensively and defensively.”
Adraee also called on the public “to remain vigilant and follow the instructions of the Home Front Command.”
He further warned that the Israeli army “will respond forcefully to any threat,” underscoring Israel’s determination in the face of any potential attack by Hezbollah.
Israeli army says it struck rocket launch sites and dozens of Hezbollah targets
The Israeli army’s spokesperson, Avichay Adraee, said on X that Israel had struck rocket launch sites as well as dozens of Hezbollah infrastructures in three different regions of Lebanon. According to Adraee, the Israeli army also recently targeted Hezbollah command centers and several other sites in Beirut’s southern suburbs.
“Three rocket launch sites were also hit in the Bekaa Valley, used by Hezbollah to fire rockets toward Israel,” Adraee said. He also said that “launch platforms and weapons depots intended to be used against Israeli forces and civilians were also struck.”
Strait of Hormuz: Trump says he 'no longer needs help'
Strait of Hormuz: France not ready for 'opening operations' in the 'current context'
Emmanuel Macron stressed that France would not take part in operations to secure the Strait of Hormuz “in the current context” of ongoing “bombardments,” but said it could join naval escorts for ships once the situation becomes “calmer” in this strategic passage for the global economy.
“We are not a party to the conflict, and therefore France will never take part in operations to open or free the Strait of Hormuz in the current context,” the French president said, effectively rejecting a request from Donald Trump, at the start of a defense council meeting at the Élysée Palace.
“However, we believe that once the situation is calmer – that is, once the core of the bombardments has ceased – we are ready, together with other nations, to take responsibility for an escort system,” he added, noting that this would also “require discussions, including with Iran.”
912 killed and 2,221 injured in Lebanon since March 2
The Ministry of Health said that Israeli strikes in Lebanon have killed 912 people and injured 2,221 others since March 2.
Macron: Working with Lebanese authorities to preserve Lebanon’s territorial integrity
“We are working alongside the Lebanese authorities to preserve sovereignty and territorial integrity, and to pursue the fight against Hezbollah without relent,” French President Emmanuel Macron said Tuesday from the Élysée Palace during a defense council meeting.
Update on south Lebanon, according to our correspondent in the region:
In the Nabatieh district, an Israeli drone targeted the village of Jibsheet, killing one person. A drone strike was also reported near the al-Rawabi water shop in Sharqieh, and another in Harouf. Two Israeli airstrikes also targeted the village of Kfar Kila for the first time since the start of the war on March 2.
In the Bint Jbeil district, an Israeli drone targeted a car in Sultanieh.
In the Marjayoun district, Israeli warplanes bombed the village of Taybeh.
1 killed, 9 injured in Israeli strike near the old airport road in Beirut's southern suburbs
The Israeli bombing targeting the area around the old airport road killed at least one person and injured nine others, according to a preliminary report from the Health Ministry.
The last person killed in an airstrike on Beirut's southern suburbs was recorded on Friday, when a raid targeted a car in the Jnah neighborhood.
Lebanese Army confirms two soldiers were killed in Israeli strike on Zibdin
The Lebanese Army confirmed in a brief statement that two of its soldiers were killed in an Israeli strike on Zibdin, in the Nabatieh district, while they were traveling there on a motorcycle.
51 Israeli strikes targeted south Lebanon since midnight
Since the start of the day, Israeli warplanes and drones have carried out at least 51 airstrikes on southern Lebanon, according to our correspondent.
In the last hour, Israeli aircraft conducted two large-scale strikes on the Rahbat neighborhood in the city of Nabatieh. The explosions were heard as far away as Saida.
In addition, Israeli warplanes targeted the Shahour (Sour) area, located between the villages of Choukine, Jibsheet and Zibdin (Nabatieh).
In the same region, Israeli drones also targeted a business in Doueir and an area between Harouf and Jibsheet (Nabatieh).
Hezbollah launches kamikaze drone at Israeli soldiers in Maroun al-Ras, south Lebanon
Hezbollah announced that it launched a suicide drone toward Israeli soldiers in a tent in Maroun al-Ras, Lebanon, at 7:15 a.m. It also claimed to have fired a salvo of rockets at a group of Israeli soldiers near the Khiam (Marjayoun) municipal headquarters at 1 p.m.
The party further claimed responsibility for a rocket strike on the Israeli coastal city of Nahariya earlier in the day.
Netanyahu: By killing Larijani, Israel gives Iranians 'opportunity to take control of their destiny'
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that by killing Ali Larijani, Israel was giving Iranians an "opportunity to take control of their destiny," in a video released by his office.
"This morning, we eliminated Ali Larijani, the leader of a gang of thugs who are actually running Iran," Netanyahu said. "We are shaking this regime in the hope of giving the Iranian people a chance to get rid of it," he added, "and if we persevere, we will give them the opportunity to take control of their destiny."
Two more Lebanese soldiers killed in Israeli strike on Zibdin, Nabatieh
Two more Lebanese soldiers were killed in an Israeli drone strike on Zibdin (Nabatieh) while they were traveling on a motorcycle. The Lebanese army has not yet confirmed their deaths.
Another soldier was killed, and five others were wounded earlier in the day in two separate Israeli strikes on the same area.
Investigation launched in Israel into airstrike that killed Lebanese soldier in Nabatieh
Commenting on the Israeli strike on Ka'akayet al-Jisr, which killed one Lebanese soldier and wounded four others, Israeli army spokesperson Ella Waweya stated that an investigation is underway.
"We maintain that the Israeli army is acting against Hezbollah and not against the Lebanese Army or Lebanese civilians," she said.
Israeli strikes on Lebanon since March 2nd have killed 886 people, including more than 100 children, and the Israeli army has reported eliminating approximately 400 Hezbollah fighters.
'Lebanese government must launch immediate actions against Hezbollah,' warns Israeli foreign minister
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar asserted that Israel had “already won” the war against Iran, believing that the latter had been “considerably weakened.” He added that his country would continue its war against Iran “until the mission is accomplished,” during a press conference with his Estonian counterpart.
He also addressed the Lebanese front, stating that Hezbollah had launched “more than 2,000 missiles and drones toward Israel” in two weeks of escalation, indicating that this was a far greater number than the number of attacks launched from Iran.
“The Lebanese government pledged to disarm Hezbollah during the cease-fire of Nov. 27, 2024, but it hasn’t done so, and now it’s doing nothing to stop Hezbollah attacks and hasn’t even dismissed the Hezbollah-affiliated ministers from the government,” he said.
He added, “We expect the Lebanese state to take immediate action to stop the attacks originating from its territory. If they don’t want to confront Hezbollah, they will be handing Lebanon’s sovereignty and its future over to Iran.”
Third Israeli airstrike on Beirut's southern suburbs targeted old airport road; airport is 'operating normally'
According to local media, the third Israeli airstrike on Beirut's southern suburbs targeted the area around the old road leading to the international airport, known as Imam Khomeini Avenue, near al-Rassoul al-A'azam Hospital.
The head of Civil Aviation, Mohammad Aziz, quickly responded to reports circulating on social media, stating that the airport was operating normally and that the road leading to it was passable.
Mari municipality evacuates displaced people from school after Israeli threats
The municipality of Mari (Hasbaya district) evacuated displaced people last night who had taken refuge in the village school, following threats issued by the Israeli army, according to our correspondent in the South. The displaced people originally came from the neighboring villages of Wazzani and Ain Arab.
Following these threats, the mokhtar of Wazzani, Ahmad al-Mohammad, indicated that approximately 50 families from the village were forced to flee Israel's attacks again, dispersing to several neighboring villages.
South Lebanon: Israeli strike kills worker before funeral in Aitit, fires white phosphorus at Wazzani
The situation in southern Lebanon, according to our correspondent:
— Israeli drone strike kills a worker digging a grave in preparation for a funeral in the Aitit cemetery (Sour district) and injures two of his colleagues.
— Israeli drone strikes also targeted an area between Aaba and Qseibeh, as well as Jibsheet, Deir al-Zahrani, the main road between Mayfadoun and Choukine (Nabatieh) and Kharayeb (Sidon).
— The Israeli army carried out airstrikes against Zibqine (Sour), Kfar Tibnit, Habboush (Nabatieh) and the outskirts of Arzi (Saida).
— The areas around Wazzani and Sarda (Marjayoun) were targeted by white phosphorus artillery fire, alongside Israeli vehicle movements in these two sectors.
Lebanese soldier seriously injured in strike on Doueir in south Lebanon
An Israeli army drone targeted a motorcycle in the village of Doueir (Nabatieh), seriously wounding a Lebanese Army soldier, according to our correspondent in the South.
Earlier in the day, a Lebanese soldier was killed, and four others were wounded in a drone strike that targeted them as they traveled by car and motorcycle in Ka'akayet al-Jisr, also in the Nabatieh district.
Third Israeli airstrike on Beirut's southern suburbs
Beirut's southern suburbs were targeted by Israeli aircraft for the third time this morning. The two previous strikes both targeted the Laylaki neighborhood, according to local media.
Rajji condemns alleged Hezbollah sabotage plot in Kuwait
Lebanese Foreign Minister Joe Rajji expressed his “strong condemnation” of an alleged Hezbollah sabotage plot targeting Kuwait.
This statement comes after the Kuwaiti Interior Ministry announced on Monday the arrest of 16 people — 14 Kuwaitis and two Lebanese nationals — whom it claims are affiliated with Hezbollah.
According to the Ministry, this group “aimed to destabilize the country’s security and recruit individuals.” It added that several weapons, drones equipped with cameras and Morse code communication devices were seized.
Lebanese Army announced a soldier was killed in Israeli strike on south Lebanon
The Lebanese Army announced that one of its soldiers was killed from injuries sustained in an Israeli drone strike that targeted a group of five soldiers traveling in a civilian vehicle on a road in Ka'akayet al-Jisr (Nabatieh district).
The four other wounded soldiers, one of whom is in serious condition, remain hospitalized.
'Not the right time for peace': Mojtaba Khamenei rejects any cease-fire proposal, according to Iranian official
Iran’s new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, has rejected any cessation of the ongoing regional war and dismissed a proposal to open negotiations on a potential cease-fire with the United States, which was reportedly conveyed to Tehran by two intermediary countries, according to a senior Iranian official quoted by Reuters.
Khamenei’s position in favor of retaliation against the United States and Israel was “very firm and very serious” during his first meeting dedicated to foreign policy, the official said on condition of anonymity, without specifying whether the leader attended in person, given that he was reportedly wounded in an Israeli airstrike.
The official also stated that the supreme leader declared that “it is not the right time for peace until the United States and Israel are brought to their knees, accept defeat and pay reparations.”
In addition, three sources had previously told Reuters on March 14 that the U.S. administration had dismissed efforts by its partners in the Middle East to revive talks with Tehran to end the war.
Strikes in Iran: Israel targeted the military chief of Palestinian Islamic Jihad
An Israeli airstrike targeted Akram al-Ajouri, one of the top leaders of Palestinian Islamic Jihad, in Iran overnight, an Israeli military official announced.
Ajouri is the head of the Quds Force, the movement's military wing, which operates primarily in the Gaza Strip. "He was staying in Iran, where he usually resided ...We don't yet have any data" on the results of the strike, the military official told reporters on condition of anonymity.
Israeli attacks have continued since this morning, killing at least 3 people in south Lebanon
- At least three people were killed in an Israeli airstrike targeting the town of Bint Jbeil in southern Lebanon, according to the state-run National News Agency. Several others were wounded in the attacks and taken to the hospital, the official agency reported.
- In the past hour, the Israeli army also carried out strikes on the villages of Jermaq (Jezzine district), Yohmor al-Shaqif (Nabatieh), Aitit (Sour), where three people were injured by two successive drone strikes, Jmaijmeh and Burj Qalaway (Bint Jbeil), where the targeted site is located near an orphanage.
- Continued Israeli artillery fire also targeted the towns of Kafra (Bint Jbeil), the outskirts of Debbine (Marjayoun), and near the Marj al-Khoukh camp.
- Further artillery fire targeting the town of Braasheet (Bint Jbeil) prompted the intervention of rescue workers from the Islamic Health Committee, affiliated with Hezbollah, who are working to clear roads and remove debris blocking traffic in the village.
Tribute to Iranian marines killed in action was posted by Ali Larijani's X account
Shortly after Israel's announcement that Ali Larijani was killed in Israeli strikes on Tehran last night, a message was posted on his X account. It is a handwritten letter paying tribute to Iranian marines killed in action. This message was posted on the occasion of a funeral for Iranian sailors, and Larijani praises their "sacrifices" in it.
Another Israeli strike on Beirut's southern suburbs
A second strike targeted Beirut's southern suburbs, according to local media reports, following an initial strike a few minutes earlier on the Laylaki district.
Lebanese Army confirms Israeli drone strike near Nabatieh injured 5 soldiers
The Lebanese Army confirmed in a statement that an Israeli drone strike injured five of its soldiers, “two of them seriously,” this morning, while they were driving their cars and motorcycles in Qaaqaaiyet al-Jisr (Nabatieh), as previously reported by our correspondent.
The army stated that the soldiers were transferred to hospitals in the region.
Israel announces Ali Larijani was killed
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz claimed that Ali Larijani, secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, was killed overnight in an Israeli strike on Tehran.
Katz also confirmed the death of Basij commander Gholam Reza Soleimani in a separate strike on the Iranian capital.
Israel claims it destroyed a tunnel used to store weapons in Kafra
In a statement published by its spokesperson Avichay Adraee, the Israeli army claimed a strike on Kafra, in the Bint Jbeil district, which it claimed targeted a “large underground infrastructure” used to store weapons, including cruise missiles and hundreds of rockets.
Adraee added that since the beginning of the week, Hezbollah “headquarters and infrastructure” have also been targeted in Beirut, whose southern suburbs have been struck repeatedly since the weekend.
Israeli strike on Beirut’s southern suburbs
An Israeli strike hit Beirut’s southern suburbs shortly after a “warning strike” on a building in Laylaki, according to local media.
Israel also claims it killed Basij commander in another strike in Tehran
In addition to targeting Ali Larijani, the Israeli military also claimed to have killed Gholam Reza Soleimani, commander of the Basij paramilitary organization for the past six years, in another nighttime strike in Tehran.
According to a statement from the military, its air force conducted a "precise strike" in the heart of the Iranian capital, "based on intelligence provided by military intelligence."
This operation is part of a series of actions that, according to the military, have already killed "dozens of senior officials" linked to the Iranian security apparatus, constituting "a further blow" to its command structures.
The Basij, a paramilitary organization affiliated with the Iranian armed forces, played a central role in the repression of the recent popular uprising in Iran, during which several thousand protesters were killed.
The Israeli army added that it "will continue its operations against the leaders" of the Iranian regime and its security apparatus.
Israel targeted Ali Larijani in its overnight strikes against Iran
The Israeli military reportedly targeted Ali Larijani, a key figure in the Iranian state apparatus, during its latest wave of bombings carried out overnight Monday into Tuesday across Iran.
The information was reported by several Israeli media outlets, citing military officials, who stated that it is not yet known whether Larijani was killed or wounded in the attack.
Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, the highest decision-making body on defense and foreign policy in the Islamic Republic, Larijani was also part of the triumvirate tasked with overseeing the transition of power after the assassination of former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, until the appointment of his son, Mojtaba Khamenei, who is also reportedly wounded.
Israeli army chief of staff Eyal Zamir, for his part, spoke of "significant results" achieved overnight that could "influence the conduct of operations," the Times of Israel reported.
The newspaper specified that another Israeli strike targeted "several officials linked to the Palestinian front," including leaders of Islamic Jihad in Iran.
New strikes heard in Tehran; Israel claims responsibility for several attacks against 'Iranian regime targets'
Several explosions rocked the Iranian capital Tuesday morning, according to AFP, after a night of rain and thunderstorms marked by intense blasts, on the 18th day of the Israeli-American war against Iran.
The Israeli army claimed responsibility for a new "large-scale offensive" carried out by "dozens of fighter jets" against "Iranian regime targets in Tehran, Shiraz and Tabriz."
Among these targets were the headquarters of the Basij, the Iranian regime's security apparatus, as well as the headquarters of the Intelligence Ministry in Tehran.
Sites used for storing and launching drones, ballistic missiles and air defense systems were also attacked, the statement added.
Lebanese soldiers targeted by Israeli drone were returning from duty at time of attack
The Lebanese soldiers targeted by two Israeli drone strikes were not on patrol at the time of the attack, but were returning from duty, according to the latest information from our correspondent.
They were in a civilian car, and another soldier was riding a motorcycle alongside the vehicle when the attack occurred. They were all in uniform. Of the five wounded, one is in critical condition.
Two Israeli drone strikes target Lebanese Army patrol
An Israeli drone twice targeted a Lebanese Army patrol deployed in the village of Ka'akayet al-Jisr (Nabatieh district), reports our correspondent. Five soldiers were wounded in the attack.
This is not the first time Lebanese soldiers have been targeted by Israel since the escalation of the conflict between Hezbollah and Israel on March 2, even though the army is not involved in the fighting. Last week, two soldiers were killed in another drone strike in Sowaneh (Marjayoun) and in a bombing in Braasheet (Bint Jbeil).
Man abducted overnight by Israel in Kfar Shuba now freed
Qassem Qadri, the man who was abducted overnight by the Israeli army in Kfar Shuba, southern Lebanon, has been freed, reports the state-run National News Agency.
Qadri was kidnapped from his home during an infiltration by Israeli soldiers, who searched several houses in the village.
Rocket barrages fired toward Israel from southern Lebanon
According to our correspondent, several rockets were fired this morning before 9 a.m. from southern Lebanon toward Israeli territory.
Hezbollah has not yet claimed responsibility on its Telegram channel, despite having claimed seven attacks against Israeli targets since midnight.
Israeli army announces 36th Division 'began operations' in ground offensive in southern Lebanon
The Israeli army announced that troops from its "36th Division" have begun operations in southern Lebanon as part of the ground offensive launched by Israel, which threatens to invade parts of the country's South.
"Forces of the 36th Division have joined the concentrated and expanded ground operation in southern Lebanon ... in order to extend the forward defense zone in northern Israel ... and create an additional layer of security for residents of the north," the division wrote in a statement on X, specifying that it is operating "alongside the 91st Division."
The latter had already announced a few days earlier the redeployment of the Golani Brigade from the Gaza Strip to southern Lebanon.
Woman injured in strike on Dohat Aramoun, south of Beirut
The Lebanese Health Ministry announced that the dawn strike carried out by Israeli aircraft on a residential building in Dohat Aramoun, south of Beirut, injured one person, an Ethiopian woman.
South Lebanon: Building threatened, then struck by Israel in Saida
Approximately an hour and a half after issuing an evacuation order, the Israeli army bombed a building located in the village of Arab al-Jal, in the Saida district of South Lebanon, the first such attack since the start of the war, reports our correspondent.
This building was described as a "Hezbollah facility" in a statement published on X by the Arabic-language spokesperson for the Israeli army.
In addition, the Israeli air force carried out two other strikes against the towns of Bint Jbeil and Khiam, and another on the outskirts of Debbine (Marjayoun).
Israeli strike on Yohmor, in Bekaa
Furthermore, according to our correspondent in the Bekaa Valley, an Israeli airstrike targeted the village of Yohmor overnight.
No casualty figures were immediately available.
Clashes between Hezbollah, Israeli army in Taybeh
Overnight, Hezbollah reported several attacks targeting Israeli army advances in southern Lebanon, the day after announcing a ground offensive "inspired by the one conducted in Gaza."
Fighting was reported in Taybeh, in the Marjayoun district. Hezbollah said it targeted a Merkava tank with a guided missile at 1:45 a.m. in the Taybeh area.
"The Israeli army evacuated its losses under a smokescreen, then the area was targeted again with shells and rockets," according to a statement from the party.
Fifteen minutes later, another tank was "directly hit in the same area, bringing the number of tanks targeted since Monday evening to five," according to the party.
Hezbollah also announced that at 12:45 a.m., it had confronted a gathering of Israeli soldiers in Marjayoun and another south of Maroun al-Ras with a salvo of rockets.
At 1:45 a.m., the party said it had targeted a gathering of Israeli soldiers on Tallet Hamames Hill, south of Khiam, which has been occupied since the ground offensive in the fall of 2024.
Furthermore, Hezbollah claimed responsibility for rocket fire on the al-Assi military position in Israeli territory, opposite Mais al-Jabal, and in Misgav Am.
Israeli strikes this morning on Dbaal and Khiam in South Lebanon
Since Tuesday morning, fighter jets have carried out strikes on Dbaal, in the Sour district, Habboush (Nabatieh district), and Khiam (Marjayoun).
Israeli strikes also targeted Dohat Aramoun, a town south of Beirut in the Aley district, at dawn. This village has been bombed several times since March 2.
Two Israeli strikes also targeted the southern suburbs of Beirut overnight, near the Kafa'at roundabout on the Hadi Nasrallah highway, and near al-Sahel Hospital in Haret Hreik.
The Israeli army claimed to have conducted "a series of simultaneous strikes" in Tehran and Beirut.
Overnight Israeli strikes in Jezzine in south Lebanon
Throughout Monday night into Tuesday, the Israeli army continued its airstrikes and artillery fire, according to local and security sources cited by our correspondent.
- It carried out two strikes on the Jabal al-Rafih heights in the Rihan hills and two more on the al-Aroush quarry, which had already been targeted the previous day, in Aramta (Jezzine district).
- Airstrikes also targeted Deir Kifa, Qana (though the missile failed to explode), Majadel and Zibqine (Sour), as well as Kafra and Yater (Bint Jbeil district).
- Israeli artillery shelled Khiam (Marjayoun district) and neighborhoods of Aita al-Shaab (Bint Jbeil) with several shells.
- An Israeli airstrike targeted Taybeh (Marjayoun), accompanied by artillery and heavy machine-gun fire from Israeli positions located in Lebanese territory, in Taybeh.
- The Lebanese Army evacuated families still in Siddiqine (Sour district) after receiving Israeli calls demanding the evacuation of the village, located south of the Zahrani River, in an area threatened by Israel.
Overnight, Israel abducted Kfar Shuba resident in south Lebanon
As the Israeli army continued its airstrikes on southern Lebanon overnight and advanced along several axes, infantry soldiers entered Kfar Shuba, in the eastern sector, around 1:30 a.m. and searched several houses before abducting a resident, Qassem Qadri, from his home.
The soldiers then withdrew to their positions in the contested hills above this village in the Hasbaya district.
This is the first such abduction since the start of the Israeli offensive on March 2. A similar abduction, however, took place on the night of Feb. 8-9, when Israeli soldiers kidnapped an official of Jamaa Islamiya, a Hamas ally in Lebanon, in Hebbarieh, near Kfar Shuba.
We are starting our live coverage of the Middle East war today, with a particular focus on the escalation on the Lebanese front, now in its fourteenth day.
In this live feed, we will be following the events in Lebanon, the day after Israel announced a ground offensive "that should be modeled on the one in Gaza," according to the Israeli Defense Minister. We will also report on developments in the Middle East.
➡️ For all the developments from Monday, see our live coverage from yesterday here.
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Iran-US-Lebanon: Everything can change in an instant.
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