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On Tuesday at 5:15 p.m., the Israeli army issued a series of evacuation warnings targeting four buildings located in central neighborhoods of Beirut: Ras Beyrouth, Mazraa, Mseitbeh and Zkak al-Blat. This is the first time that these areas, in the heart of the capital, have been targeted since the beginning of the threats issued by Avichay Adraeespokesperson for the Israeli army, a few hours before the ceasefire announcement.
Extension of targets towards the south
These warnings come shortly after similar threats regarding:
- A building in Saidain southern Lebanon.
- Another in Tiretargeted under the pretext that they house branches of the financial organization al-Qard al-Hassanaffiliated with Hezbollah.
According to Israeli statements, these buildings are used to finance and support Hezbollah’s military activities, although these accusations have not been independently confirmed.
A worrying escalation in civilian areas
Targeting densely populated residential areas like Ras Beyrouth et Zkak al-Blatuntil then relatively spared, marks a new stage in the intensification of hostilities. These neighborhoods are home not only to homes but also to educational institutions, businesses and essential infrastructure. Expanding potential strikes to these areas could have consequences devastating humanitarian.
Israeli justifications under the microscope
By claiming that these buildings are linked to al-Qard al-Hassan, Israel appears to be pursuing a strategy aimed at weakening Hezbollah’s economic and social capabilities. However, this approach raises questions about the disproportion of attacks and their impact on the civilian population. Al-Qard al-Hassan, although sanctioned by several Western countries, is perceived locally as an organization providing financial support to many Lebanese, particularly in times of acute economic crisis.
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