Israel’s military blocked Lebanon’s primary crossing to Syria early Friday following a night of airstrikes on Beirut’s southern suburbs. The area, known as a Hezbollah stronghold, has faced escalating attacks in recent weeks. Israeli forces have accused Hezbollah of using the crossing to smuggle weapons into Lebanon.
Hezbollah official Hashem Safieddine, seen as the likely successor to the group’s former leader, was reportedly the target of the latest strikes, though his fate remains unclear. The attacks have sparked fears of a broader conflict in the region.
Meanwhile, Lebanon’s transport minister confirmed that the strikes near the Syrian border left a massive crater, further stoking concerns about the conflict’s expansion. Lebanese residents continue to flee, as Israel calls for evacuations from southern villages.
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