Israel Barrages Beirut Amid Escalating Iranian Retaliation Across Middle East
Residents in southern Lebanon are fleeing their homes as Israel pounds Beirut with bombs, targeting Hezbollah strongholds in a significant escalation of regional hostilities. The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) conducted 26 airstrikes on a key Hezbollah site in southern Beirut, intensifying the conflict following Iranian retaliatory actions.
Iran Launches Missile and Drone Attacks on US Allies
In response to the strikes, Iran launched coordinated missile and drone attacks on countries hosting US forces, including Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain. This move marks a direct retaliation against American military presence in the region, further destabilising an already volatile situation.
US President Donald Trump stated that Iran has 'lost everything' and firmly rejected diplomatic solutions, aiming to 'clean out everything' to pave the way for a new Iranian leadership. However, he ruled out a ground invasion, focusing instead on aerial and naval operations.
Evacuations and Travel Disruptions Worsen
The first UK government-chartered flight evacuating British nationals from Oman landed at London's Stansted Airport, as Middle Eastern airspace closures continue to disrupt international travel. Major airlines have resumed limited flights, but widespread cancellations and delays persist, affecting thousands of passengers globally.
International Incidents and Political Fallout
The Indian Navy has joined a search and rescue operation after the US sinking of an Iranian warship off Sri Lanka, resulting in 87 sailor deaths. Meanwhile, Japan confirmed the detention of a second national in Iran and called for their early release, highlighting the international ramifications of the conflict.
Domestically, Donald Trump criticised Tucker Carlson for opposing the US-Israeli strikes, and House lawmakers rejected a resolution to curb Trump's military actions against Iran, underscoring the political divisions within the United States over the ongoing crisis.
