US-Israel war on Iran live updates: conflict spreads to Lebanon as IDF strikes Hezbollah after attack on Israel

The Guardian - World NewsCenter-LeftEN 8 min read 100% complete by Adam FultonMarch 2, 2026 at 03:43 AM

AI Summary

long article 8 min

Tensions between Israel and Iran have escalated, leading to a spread of conflict into Lebanon. Israel conducted airstrikes on Hezbollah-controlled southern suburbs of Beirut early Monday morning after the Iran-backed group launched missiles and drones toward Israel. These actions were reportedly in retaliation for the killing of Iran’s supreme leader, Ali Khamenei. The Israeli military issued evacuation orders for 55 villages and towns in Lebanon, citing the presence of Hezbollah operatives and facilities. Consequently, residents are fleeing the affected areas, causing traffic congestion and displacement. Separately, the UK Ministry of Defence is responding to a suspected drone strike at its military base in Cyprus.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Cyprus ×235% UK 35% Ministry of Defence (MoD) ×240% Tyre ×250% Ali Khamenei 60% Beirut ×570% Iran ×270% Dahieh ×475% Hezbollah ×280% Lebanon ×685% Israel ×790%

Keywords

us-israel war on iran 90% idf strikes hezbollah 80% lebanon 80% israeli airstrikes 70% beirut 70% dahieh 60% evacuation orders 60% missile attack 50% cyprus base 40%