Israel Strikes Baalbek, Lebanon’s Historic City, Amid Intensified Conflict with Hezbollah
Israeli airstrikes have reportedly killed 19 individuals, including eight women, in Lebanon’s eastern city of Baalbek, according to Lebanon’s health ministry. The strikes occurred hours after evacuation orders from Israel prompted tens of thousands of residents to flee Baalbek and nearby areas, creating chaotic scenes of departure.
Mustafa al-Shell, Baalbek’s mayor, informed the BBC that over 20 strikes were reported in the area Wednesday, with five within Baalbek itself. Israel’s military claimed the operation targeted Hezbollah command centers and logistical sites in Baalbek and Nabatiyeh, where the group maintains a strong presence.
Hezbollah’s new leader, Naim Qassem, vowed continued opposition to Israel, following the agenda of his predecessor Hassan Nasrallah, who died in an airstrike last month. Qassem addressed supporters from an undisclosed location, suggesting he may have relocated to Iran, Hezbollah’s primary backer.
The conflict has brought a wave of displaced people to Beirut, where the escalating violence has already forced over a million people from their homes across Lebanon. Baalbek, near the Syria border, is a strategic location for Hezbollah’s operations and a vital link between Lebanon, Syria, and Iran. The region’s rural poverty has made it fertile ground for recruitment and support.
Amid reports of fuel depots in the Bekaa Valley hit by Israeli airstrikes, al-Shell said images from the area showed black smoke columns rising over the town of Douris. The mayor estimated around 50,000 residents left within two hours after Israel’s evacuation warning, though many opted to stay despite the escalating conflict.
The strikes also raised international concern over Baalbek’s Roman ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage site, although al-Shell confirmed they remained unscathed. UNESCO cautioned all involved parties against harming historic sites, underscoring the importance of preserving cultural landmarks.
Tensions have escalated as the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah continues, spurred initially by Gaza-related violence. In northern Israel, rocket attacks from Hezbollah have led to significant casualties and displacement. The Israeli government cited its intent to protect its border residents as a primary motive for the expanded military action, while diplomatic efforts by the United States aim to establish a potential ceasefire in the coming days.
