Israeli Strikes Escalate Tensions in Lebanon

The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah has intensified, with recent Israeli strikes resulting in significant casualties in both Gaza and Lebanon. Israeli airstrikes in Gaza killed at least 34 civilians, while in Lebanon, two Lebanese soldiers were killed in an Israeli attack on their army post, marking a troubling escalation in hostilities. The Shiite community, particularly Hezbollah's support base, is facing unprecedented pressure amid the violence, with many Shiite refugees seeking shelter in areas that are not welcoming. Concurrently, a draft proposal from the U.S. aimed at ending the conflict is under consideration by Lebanese and Hezbollah officials, with Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri negotiating on behalf of Hezbollah. The humanitarian crisis is worsening, with reports of skyrocketing rental prices in Beirut and severe living conditions for refugees, as tensions rise among different sects blaming each other for the war. The situation remains precarious as both military actions and diplomatic efforts continue to unfold.