Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant warned Iran that it may face consequences similar to Gaza and Beirut should it threaten Israel. This statement follows Israeli airstrikes that killed at least 21 people in Gaza and repeated bombings in Beirut. President Macron has called for a halt to arms shipments to Israel, drawing criticism from Netanyahu. Approximately 374,000 people have fled Lebanon to Syria amid escalating violence, with over 2,000 casualties reported in Lebanon since October 7.
On Sunday, Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant issued a stern warning to Iran, cautioning that any attempt to threaten Israel could result in devastation similar to that witnessed in Gaza and Beirut. This declaration followed a recent Israeli airstrike on a mosque in Deir al-Balah, central Gaza, which tragically resulted in the deaths of at least 21 individuals, as reported by the Gaza civil defense agency. Concurrently, reports indicated explosive violence in southern Beirut, correlating with Israel’s intensified military actions against Hezbollah positions. French President Emmanuel Macron has urged the international community to cease arms deliveries to Israel, sparking a strong rebuke from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who described Macron’s comments as bringing “shame” on France. Macron’s office later reaffirmed France’s unwavering support for Israel, while addressing Netanyahu’s remarks as “excessive.” In Lebanon, the humanitarian crisis continues to escalate as approximately 374,000 individuals have fled to Syria amid ongoing Israeli operations, with heavy casualties reported among Lebanese civilians. Since the attack by Hamas on October 7, over 2,000 Lebanese have died, with around half of these fatalities occurring within the past week alone, leading to approximately 1.2 million displacements throughout the country. Israel’s military reported nine soldiers killed in the same period following its ground operations launched on October 1.
Heightened tensions in the Middle East have arisen primarily due to escalated conflicts involving Israel, Hamas, and Hezbollah. Following the Hamas attacks on October 7, Israel has increased its military operations in Gaza and Lebanon, leading to extensive loss of life and humanitarian crises. The conflict has raised international concerns regarding arms supplies to Israel and the resulting civilian casualties, as observed in various strikes. Additionally, regional reactions, including those from France, have sparked diplomatic disputes amidst calls for a ceasefire and humanitarian intervention.
The current situation in the Middle East is marked by significant military action and humanitarian concerns, with Israeli officials issuing severe warnings to Iran amid continued conflict with Hezbollah and mounting casualties in Lebanon and Gaza. The international community remains divided, with calls for arms embargoes and shifts in diplomatic engagement regarding Israel’s military actions exacerbating tensions. As the crisis evolves, the implications for regional stability and humanitarian needs remain critical.
Original Source: www.france24.com
