Israel Intensifies Airstrikes in Central Beirut

Israel has intensified its airstrikes on Beirut, targeting Hezbollah militants and resulting in significant civilian casualties, with at least 22 dead and 117 injured reported. The recent strikes marked a shift as they targeted central Beirut, specifically aiming at high-ranking Hezbollah official Wafiq Safa. The airstrikes have left the Lebanese capital in a state of devastation, with many areas resembling war zones and the airport almost deserted. The Biden administration has expressed support for Israel's right to defend itself but faces criticism for the humanitarian impact of the ongoing conflict, which has reportedly killed over 2,000 people in Lebanon and displaced hundreds of thousands. The situation has escalated tensions, with Hezbollah responding with rocket fire into northern Israel, further complicating the regional stability. International voices, including the U.N., are calling for a ceasefire as the civilian toll mounts amid the conflict's intensification.