An Israeli airstrike has hit a hotel in Beirut, escalating tensions in the ongoing confrontation between Israel Defense Forces and the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah.According to local authorities, the strike caused significant structural damage to the building and surrounding properties, with emergency crews rushing to the scene to search for casualties. Initial reports indicate multiple injuries, though the exact number of fatalities has yet to be confirmed.
The Israeli military said the strike targeted what it described as a Hezbollah-linked facility operating within the hotel premises. However, Hezbollah officials have denied the claim, accusing Israel of deliberately targeting civilian infrastructure.
The attack comes amid days of cross-border rocket fire and retaliatory strikes, raising fears of a broader regional conflict. Residents in parts of Beirut reported loud explosions and plumes of smoke rising from the affected area shortly after the strike.
International leaders have called for restraint, warning that further escalation could destabilize the region. The situation remains fluid as both sides continue to exchange accusations and threats.
