### Tensions Rise as Israeli Airstrike Claims Three Lives in Beirut

The Israeli military conducted a nighttime airstrike on the southern suburb of Dahieh, which left at least three individuals dead, according to Lebanon's health ministry. This event marks the second attack in the heavily Hezbollah-populated area in less than a week, casting doubt over the truce established in November following 13 months of conflict. In a statement, the Israeli military claimed the strike was aimed at a Hezbollah operative linked to Hamas, who was allegedly involved in planning a significant terror plot against Israeli civilians, justifying the action as a necessary precaution.

Local reports indicated significant damage to residential buildings, highlighting civilian vulnerability amidst ongoing tensions. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun labeled the airstrike a “dangerous warning,” while Prime Minister Nawaf Salam decried it as a “flagrant violation” of the ceasefire. Despite the ceasefire agreement, which was supposed to halt months of fighting that left around 4,000 people dead in Lebanon, the Israeli military has reportedly conducted multiple airstrikes targeting Hezbollah, arguing that these actions are aimed at preventing the group from rearmament.

This backdrop of violence was intensified following the Hamas attacks on Israel earlier in October 2023, leading to extensive Israeli military actions in Lebanon as tensions between the nations continue to escalate.