Israel’s military escalates attacks in Lebanon and Gaza amid global protests against violence, marking nearly a year since the onset of war. Demonstrations gather momentum in major cities advocating for peace, while regional leaders urge for a ceasefire as civilian casualties continue to rise on both sides.
Intensifying conflict in the Middle East continues as Israel escalates its military operations in Lebanon and Gaza, marking the near anniversary of the war that commenced in October last year. Powerful explosions resonated through various regions, particularly in Beirut and the Jabaliya area of northern Gaza, as Israeli forces targeted both Hezbollah and Hamas militants. In the wake of these developments, approximately 40,000 demonstrators convened in London while others gathered in major cities worldwide, advocating for cessation of hostilities and humanitarian support for affected populations in Gaza and Lebanon. The Israeli military confirmed its actions, stating that projectiles had been fired into Israeli territory from Lebanon, prompting defensive measures. In Gaza, the casualties from the ongoing conflict have reportedly exceeded 41,000, according to the Health Ministry run by Hamas. Concurrently, Lebanese officials have called for international pressure on Israel to negotiate a ceasefire, asserting the dire humanitarian implications of the ongoing violence. Additionally, Iranian officials have been observed visiting strategic locations amid heightened tensions, particularly concerning Israel’s military stance towards Iranian interests.
The Israel-Hezbollah conflict forms part of a broader confrontation involving various groups supported by Iran, collectively termed the ‘Axis of Resistance’. This framework includes not only Hezbollah and Hamas but also various Palestinian factions aligned against Israel. Since the begining of the war on October 7, 2023, escalations have resulted in significant loss of life and widespread displacement of civilians, particularly among Palestinian refugees. Consequently, international public sentiment has manifested through global protests demanding an end to violence and support for victims, reflecting mounting concerns regarding the humanitarian crises emerging from prolonged conflict.
The situation in the Israel-Hezbollah war remains critical, marked by Israel’s intensified strikes against targets in both Lebanon and Gaza. As civilian protests mount across major cities advocating for peace and humanitarian aid, the scale of destruction and the number of affected individuals continue to rise, highlighting the urgent need for diplomatic interventions aimed at achieving a ceasefire and alleviating human suffering in the region. International stakeholders are increasingly called upon to address the escalating violence and facilitate dialogues that could lead to lasting peace.
Original Source: www.thehindu.com
