Israel Issues New Evacuation Warnings in Lebanon as Tensions Rise
The Israeli army has issued fresh evacuation warnings across Lebanon, including parts of southern Beirut, as fighting with the Iran backed group Hezbollah intensifies.
In a statement posted on Telegram, Israeli military spokesman Avichay Adraee urged residents in 50 locations, mainly in southern Lebanon, to leave their homes immediately. “Urgent warning to the residents of Lebanon,” he said, stressing that people should evacuate “for your safety.”
Separate alerts were also sent to residents of Beirut’s southern suburbs, including Ghobeiry and Haret Hreik. They were told to avoid two specific buildings said to be located near Hezbollah facilities. Adraee warned that the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) would operate in the area soon and instructed civilians to move at least 300 metres away. A third warning later targeted a building in the Hadath neighbourhood.
The evacuation notices follow Israel’s vow to intensify strikes against Hezbollah after the group launched rocket and drone attacks. Israeli officials said Hezbollah would pay a “heavy price” for the assaults, which the group claimed were in retaliation for the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, in U.S. Israeli strikes.
Lebanon’s government has responded by banning Hezbollah’s military and security activities. Officials said the decision was aimed at reducing further escalation and protecting civilians.
On Monday, Israeli bombardments struck Beirut’s southern suburbs and dozens of villages in southern Lebanon. According to Lebanese authorities, at least 52 people were killed and 154 wounded in the attacks. Rescue teams reported widespread destruction, with homes, shops, and public buildings damaged.
The latest warnings have added to fears of a broader conflict. Residents in affected areas described scenes of panic as families rushed to leave their homes. Many expressed frustration at being caught between Hezbollah’s actions and Israel’s military response.
Regional analysts say the situation marks one of the most dangerous escalations in years. They note that Israel’s strategy of issuing public evacuation alerts is unusual, reflecting both the scale of planned operations and the risk to civilians.
Humanitarian groups have also raised concerns. Aid workers warn that mass displacement could worsen Lebanon’s already fragile situation, where economic crisis and political instability have left many communities vulnerable.
The United Nations has called for restraint and urged all parties to protect civilians. Diplomats are pressing for dialogue to prevent the conflict from spreading further across the region.
For now, the Israeli army says its operations will continue until Hezbollah’s military capabilities are weakened. With evacuation warnings expanding and bombardments ongoing, residents of Lebanon face growing uncertainty about what comes next.
