Israel Strikes Beirut After Hezbollah Fires Rockets and Drones
Beirut, March 2, 2026: Israeli forces launched airstrikes across Lebanon, including the capital Beirut, on Monday in response to rocket and drone attacks by the Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah, marking a sharp escalation in regional tensions.
The Israeli military said the strikes were carried out in retaliation for Hezbollah’s projectile fire targeting Israeli territory. In a statement, the military confirmed it had begun striking multiple Hezbollah-linked targets across Lebanon, including militant positions in Beirut and southern parts of the country.
Hezbollah claims responsibility
Hezbollah claimed responsibility for launching rockets and drones at Israel, describing the attack as retaliation for the killing of Ali Khamenei and in response to continued Israeli military actions in the region. The group said the strikes were also aimed at defending Lebanon and its people.
The exchange marks the first confirmed Hezbollah attack on Israel since a ceasefire agreement in November 2024 that had ended a year-long conflict between the two sides.
Airstrikes hit Beirut and southern Lebanon
Lebanon’s state-run National News Agency reported that Israeli airstrikes hit several areas across the country, including Hezbollah strongholds in Beirut’s southern suburbs. The Israeli military later confirmed targeting Hezbollah militants in the capital region and in southern Lebanon.
The strikes triggered panic among residents, with authorities reporting large-scale displacement from affected areas as civilians fled to safer locations.
Lebanese government condemns escalation
Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam condemned the attacks on Israel as “irresponsible and suspicious,” without directly naming Hezbollah. He said the government would take necessary measures to prevent further escalation and ensure the safety of Lebanese citizens.
Lebanese officials have repeatedly stated their intention to avoid being drawn into a broader regional conflict, which intensified following recent military actions involving Israel, Iran, and the United States.
Regional tensions continue to rise
The latest exchange of strikes underscores the growing instability in the Middle East, as military confrontations and retaliatory attacks continue to raise fears of a wider regional war. Authorities and international observers are closely monitoring the situation amid concerns of further escalation.