Report: Lebanon received warning signs after Dahieh strike

Tensions are escalating in Lebanon following recent Israeli airstrikes on the southern suburbs of Beirut, with diplomatic sources warning that these attacks may become a sustained campaign. A senior Lebanese source revealed that Tel Aviv appears committed to continuing targeted assassinations, particularly against Hezbollah figures.

Hezbollah Targeted Amid International Pressure

According to the same source, Israel has reportedly made it a priority to dismantle Hezbollah’s military infrastructure, particularly in areas where the Lebanese government has taken limited action. The perception in both Tel Aviv and Washington is that Beirut has not effectively implemented international demands, especially those outlined in United Nations Security Council Resolutions 1559 and 1701. These resolutions call for disarmament of militias and the reassertion of Lebanese state authority throughout its territory.

The United States, observers say, views the Lebanese government’s stance as one of avoidance, failing to directly challenge Hezbollah or fully uphold the mandates of the UN.

Diplomatic Outreach Intensifies

In response to the renewed Israeli strikes, Lebanese Foreign Minister Youssef Rajji has launched an urgent diplomatic effort, reaching out to key international players, particularly the U.S., to intervene and de-escalate the situation. These efforts follow a second Israeli strike in the same district of Beirut, raising concerns of an expanding conflict.

Antoine Chedid, Lebanon’s former ambassador to Washington, noted that while Lebanese diplomacy may not be able to stop Israel’s military operations entirely, it still plays a crucial role in tempering the pace and scope of future aggression. He emphasized that maintaining relative calm in Beirut and its surroundings remains a realistic and necessary diplomatic goal.