Israeli forces blow up mosque minaret in southern Lebanon

On March 24, 2026, Israeli forces detonated a mosque minaret in Khiam, southern Lebanon. Video footage of the event has been released. Israel stated that its actions are part of its ongoing conflict with Hezbollah. However, Israel has been accused of attempting to depopulate southern Lebanon, having already forcibly displaced over a million people. The incident occurred amidst the broader context of the conflict between Israeli forces and Hezbollah in the region.

Israeli forces struck Beirut's southern suburbs, a Hezbollah stronghold, on Monday, marking the first attack in days and claiming the capture of two Hezbollah members in southern Lebanon. Earlier, a strike hit Hazmieh, a Christian area near Beirut, targeting an alleged Iranian Revolutionary Guard member. The Israeli military stated it was targeting Hezbollah infrastructure in Beirut after urging residents to evacuate. These actions follow Hezbollah's rocket attacks on Israel, initiated on March 2, purportedly in response to the killing of Iran's supreme leader. Since then, Israel has launched strikes across Lebanon, resulting in at least 1,039 deaths and deploying ground troops into southern Lebanon.

Amidst reported talks of ending the war, Iran and Israel have exchanged strikes, with Iran targeting Israel and Gulf Arab states. On Tuesday, Iranian missiles struck a building in Tel Aviv, prompting a response from Israeli emergency services. Simultaneously, the Israeli military conducted overnight strikes on Beirut's southern suburbs, claiming to target Hezbollah infrastructure. Earlier, a U.S.-Israeli strike hit a residential building in Tehran, Iran, on Monday. These events highlight the ongoing conflict and tensions in the region, despite claims of potential peace negotiations.

Lebanon has declared the Iranian ambassador persona non grata and demanded his departure by Sunday, while also recalling its ambassador from Tehran for consultations. The Lebanese Foreign Ministry cited Iran's violation of diplomatic norms as the reason for the action. This decision occurs amidst ongoing Israeli attacks on Lebanon, including air strikes and a ground offensive in southern Lebanon following a Hezbollah attack on March 2. The conflict, triggered by the US-Israel killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader, has resulted in over 1,072 deaths, thousands injured, and the displacement of over 1.5 million Lebanese people. Israel claims to be targeting members of Iran's IRGC, while Iran states those killed were civilians.

In March 2026, Israel conducted airstrikes in Beirut, Lebanon, targeting both military and civilian infrastructure linked to Hezbollah. The strikes hit locations including the Al-Manar TV headquarters and a branch of Al-Qard Al-Hassan, a Hezbollah-run financial institution. These actions appear to be part of an Israeli effort to weaken or dismantle Hezbollah. The attacks occurred in Dahiyeh, a southern suburb of Beirut, and other areas of the city. Photographic evidence shows significant damage to the targeted buildings.

Since March 2nd, Israeli bombings in south Lebanon have allegedly targeted medical facilities and personnel, according to Lebanese healthcare workers and officials. They report at least 128 strikes on medical sites and ambulances, resulting in 40 deaths and 107 injuries among healthcare workers. The attacks, occurring amidst the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, include alleged double-tap strikes. Medical workers and facilities are protected under international law, and deliberately targeting them could constitute a war crime. The Israeli military has accused Hezbollah of using ambulances for military purposes, a claim the Lebanese Ministry of Health denies. The majority of attacks have been against the Islamic Health Association (IHA), a health service affiliated with Hezbollah.

Israeli air raids have intensified across Lebanon, resulting in dozens of deaths and injuries over the past two days. The attacks, part of a wider conflict involving the United States and Israel against Iran, have targeted areas including Burj Shemali, Chihine, Marwahin, Jezzine, Beirut, Baalbek, and Sidon. According to Lebanese authorities, at least 45 people have been killed in the recent strikes, bringing the total to 968 since March 2, including over 100 children. The UN reports that over one million people have been displaced in Lebanon, with children comprising a third of the displaced population. Hezbollah claims to have destroyed six Israeli tanks during an Israeli advance into southern Lebanon.

Tensions have escalated in the Middle East, with Iran intensifying attacks on Gulf energy facilities following an Israeli strike on an Iranian gas field. Kuwait reported a drone attack that sparked a fire at an oil refinery. The conflict has effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global oil transport, trapping a large percentage of crude and refined products within the Persian Gulf. Simultaneously, fighting has renewed between Israel and Hezbollah, with Israeli strikes hitting both southern Lebanon and Beirut, including city center neighborhoods. These events suggest a widening conflict with potential global economic consequences due to disruptions in oil supply.

An Israeli strike on Iran's South Pars gas field, a reserve shared with Qatar, has exposed a rift between the US and Israel. The attack angered US allies in the Gulf and prompted retaliatory strikes from Iran on energy infrastructure in Qatar and Saudi Arabia. Former US President Trump claimed he was unaware of the Israeli attack in advance and instructed Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu to refrain from similar actions that could escalate regional conflict. Israeli officials disputed Trump's claim, stating that Washington had been informed beforehand. Trump also threatened a massive US response against the South Pars field if Iran attacks Qatar's energy infrastructure. The US has focused on military targets in Iran, while Israel has targeted civilian infrastructure, leading to ecological concerns and further escalating tensions.

Following the assassinations of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and security chief Ali Larijani in March 2026, questions have arisen regarding Iran's leadership and power dynamics. The assassinations, which began with attacks by Israel and the US in late February, have created uncertainty about the chain of command. While Mojtaba Khamenei has been announced as the new Supreme Leader, his lack of experience and reported injuries raise concerns. Analysts suggest that lesser-known figures may rise to power, and Iran might delay naming a successor to Larijani for security reasons. Potential influential figures include Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Saeed Jalili. The situation remains fluid, with the exact power structure in Tehran unclear.

In March 2026, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth asserted that the United States was achieving its goals regarding Iran, despite recent attacks on energy infrastructure in the Gulf region. These attacks, attributed to Iran, targeted Qatar's Ras Laffan gas facility, as well as energy sites in the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia. The strikes caused a surge in oil prices, exceeding $100 per barrel. Hegseth's statement came amidst escalating tensions and followed the reported Iranian attacks on key Gulf energy facilities. The Defense Secretary's insistence on meeting objectives suggests a continued U.S. strategy despite the increased volatility in the region.

Since March 2, over 1,000 people in Lebanon, including 40 healthcare workers, have been killed in intensified Israeli attacks, according to the Lebanese Ministry of Health. The attacks, which have also wounded over 2,500, followed rocket launches by Hezbollah into northern Israel after the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The Israeli bombardment, targeting Hezbollah, has displaced over one million people and included residential buildings and infrastructure. Hezbollah has responded with rocket fire into Israel and ground engagements. The UN human rights chief's office has stated that some Israeli attacks may constitute war crimes, emphasizing the need to distinguish between military and civilian targets.

Israeli air attacks struck central Beirut and southern and eastern Lebanon, resulting in at least 20 deaths and 24 injuries on Wednesday. The attacks, part of a wider conflict, targeted a building in Beirut's Bashoura neighborhood, killing at least six people and injuring dozens. Israel claimed the targeted building was used by Hezbollah to store cash. The Israeli military also initiated ground operations in southern Lebanon, issuing evacuation orders for residents in towns near the Zahrani River and Tyre. Lebanon's National News Agency reported additional strikes on Tyre and Al-Burj Al-Shamali.

Tensions between Israel and Iran have escalated, marked by increased attacks on both sides. Israel intensified its military actions in Lebanon, conducting deadly strikes in Beirut and other cities targeting Hezbollah militants. This escalation follows the killing of an Iranian leader. In response, Iran launched missile strikes into Israel, near Tel Aviv, resulting in two fatalities. The exchange of attacks highlights a significant increase in direct confrontation between Israel and Iran, raising concerns about regional stability. The attacks occurred recently, with Israel's actions focused on Lebanon and Iran's strikes reaching into Israeli territory.

A ballistic missile strike, launched by Iran's Revolutionary Guard, hit Ramat Gan near Tel Aviv overnight Tuesday, killing two people. The attack, captured in video footage showing a fiery aftermath, was claimed as retaliation for the deaths of senior Iranian officials, including Ali Larijani. Iran stated it launched Khorramshahr-4 and Qadr missiles designed to evade defense systems. The strike is part of an escalating conflict that began after U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran in late February. Israel has retaliated, and Iran has broadened its attacks to include targets in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, and Bahrain. The escalating conflict raises concerns about a regional war and potential disruptions to global energy supplies.

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz claimed Israel killed Iran's intelligence minister, Esmaeil Khatib, which, if confirmed, would be the third high-profile assassination of Iranian leaders in two days. This follows the reported deaths of security chief Ali Larijani and Basij paramilitary head Gholamreza Soleimani in Israeli air strikes on Tuesday. Iran has not confirmed Khatib's death but will hold funerals for Larijani and Soleimani on Wednesday. Katz also announced that he and Prime Minister Netanyahu authorized the military to eliminate other senior Iranian officials without requiring further approval. The alleged assassinations come amid heightened tensions between Israel and Iran, with Iran launching a retaliatory missile attack on Israel.

Israeli air strikes targeted three Beirut neighborhoods and southern Lebanon on Tuesday, as fighting intensifies between Israel and Hezbollah. Lebanese state media reports the attacks hit Kafaat, Haret Hreik, and Doha Aramoun in Beirut, with Israel confirming it targeted Hezbollah. The strikes in Aramoun hit a residential building, reportedly in an attempted targeted assassination. Since the renewed fighting began over two weeks ago, Israeli attacks have killed at least 886 people in Lebanon, including women and children, and wounded 2,141. Lebanon reports that over one million people have been displaced due to the ongoing conflict.

On March 16, 2026, Israel launched strikes on Tehran and Beirut, targeting Hezbollah infrastructure in the Lebanese capital. In response, Iran fired missiles that sent shrapnel falling on Jerusalem. The conflict, which began on February 28, 2026, has also seen Iran target Gulf neighbors, with a drone strike hitting a fuel tank near Dubai International Airport, causing flight disruptions. The airport has been repeatedly targeted by Iranian drones and shut down for several days since the start of the war. The U.S. has also been involved, with a U.S.-Israeli strike hitting a police station in Tehran on Friday, March 15, 2026.

According to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz, top Iranian officials Ali Larijani, Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, and Gholamreza Soleimani, Basij Commander, were killed in a strike. Katz stated the elimination occurred the previous night, following the launch of war against Iran by Israel in conjunction with the U.S. more than two weeks prior. The IDF noted Larijani was a veteran figure close to Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and oversaw the suppression of Iranian protestors. The IDF also stated Soleimani, as Basij commander for six years, led main repression operations against civilian demonstrators. The U.S. government previously offered a reward for information on Larijani as part of its Rewards for Justice program.

Ali Larijani, Iran's security chief and a key figure in shaping national strategy, was killed in an Israeli air strike. As secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, Larijani was central to decisions on war, diplomacy, and national security, especially regarding the US and Israel. His death, confirmed by state media, follows a series of killings of senior Iranian officials, suggesting a deliberate effort to weaken Iran's leadership during wartime. Larijani was managing the ongoing war, domestic unrest, and stalled nuclear negotiations at the time of his death. His removal leaves these crises unresolved and creates a leadership vacuum amid a fragile situation, with any successor facing immediate risk.

The article reports on the potential assassination of Ali Larijani, secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, allegedly by Israel. The author argues that Larijani's death would be a significant blow to Iran, possibly greater than the loss of Supreme Leader Khamenei, due to Larijani's influence and connections within Iran and with foreign powers like China and Russia. His removal eliminates a potential figure who could have facilitated a ceasefire or transition in leadership, similar to Delcy Rodríguez in Venezuela. The article suggests this loss also highlights the lack of viable alternative leaders within Iran recognized by the US, as Trump has refused to endorse Reza Pahlavi, the son of the former Shah.

On March 16, 2026, a Hezbollah rocket struck a residential building in Nahariya, a city in northern Israel. The incident caused a fire, and footage shows firefighters working to extinguish the blaze. The attack is part of ongoing tensions and exchanges between Hezbollah and Israel. The article also explores the broader context of the conflict, including the history of Israeli presence in southern Lebanon and the current state of Hezbollah's strength. It further examines the potential for a wider war and its impact on Lebanon.

On March 16, 2026, Israeli bombing attacks devastated neighborhoods in Beirut's southern suburbs. According to the news report, the destruction has left areas in ruins. Israel stated the bombings targeted Hezbollah infrastructure. As a result of the attacks, hundreds of thousands of people have been forcibly displaced from their homes. The report highlights the significant impact of the bombing campaign on the civilian population and infrastructure in Beirut.

Following Israeli attacks in March 2026, over 800,000 people in southern Lebanon, approximately 15% of the population, have been displaced and are seeking refuge in schools, stadiums, and with relatives in Beirut. The displacement stems from Israeli bombardments in response to rocket launches by Hezbollah, which cited the killing of Iran's Supreme Leader as the reason for the attacks. The conflict marks an escalation after a period of relative calm following the November 2024 ceasefire. Lebanese authorities report that only a fraction of the displaced are in collective shelters, with many scattered and lacking adequate housing. The United Nations has launched a $308 million appeal to provide aid to Lebanon, where the attacks have killed at least 850 people.

In Lebanon, over 800,000 people, approximately one in seven of the population, have been displaced in the first ten days of the current conflict. This displacement follows just over a year after a previous conflict uprooted over a million Lebanese. Many of those displaced lack adequate shelter, with government-run shelters already full and unaffordable housing options. The Lebanese government, facing financial constraints, has only been able to accommodate around 120,000 people. Individuals like Fatima Nazha, displaced from Beirut's southern suburbs, are struggling to find suitable shelter, highlighting the dire circumstances faced by many. The ongoing conflict with Israel is the cause of this mass displacement.

Overnight Israeli attacks in southern Lebanon on March 15, 2026, resulted in the deaths of at least four people, according to Lebanese media and the Ministry of Health. One person was killed in Sidon, and three others in al-Qatrani. The Israeli military stated it targeted Hezbollah infrastructure and launch sites in Lebanon, including al-Qatrani, and destroyed command centers in Beirut. The Israeli army issued immediate evacuation orders for residents in several Beirut neighborhoods, citing Hezbollah activities and threatening military action. Hezbollah also reported targeting Israeli troop positions near the border. These attacks occurred amidst ongoing efforts to find a diplomatic solution to the conflict.

In a report published on March 14, 2026, Nicholas Noe states that Israel is deliberately targeting civilian infrastructure in Lebanon. The report suggests this strategy aims to exacerbate sectarian divisions within the country. The analysis focuses on Israel's actions in southern Lebanon. The report claims that Israel's actions are not isolated incidents but rather part of a broader policy. The article examines the potential motivations and consequences of this alleged strategy.

Turkey has expressed serious concerns that Israel's ongoing strikes in Lebanon could lead to a "new genocide" under the pretext of fighting Hezbollah. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan urged the international community to intervene, citing Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu's actions. The conflict escalated after Hezbollah attacked Israel in response to the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei during US-Israeli strikes on Iran, drawing Lebanon into the wider conflict. According to Lebanon's health ministry, Israeli strikes have resulted in 826 deaths, including women and children, and over 2,000 injuries. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, during a visit to Beirut, stated that diplomatic channels remain open to end the war and called for international support for Lebanon.

An Israeli strike on a health center in the village of Burj Qalaouiyah, southern Lebanon, killed 12 medical workers on Friday, according to the Lebanese Ministry of Public Health. The deceased included doctors, paramedics, and nurses who were on duty. This attack follows another Israeli strike hours earlier on the village of Souaneh, which killed two paramedics and wounded five. The Lebanese Health Ministry condemned the attacks, reporting that 18 paramedics have been killed in Lebanon since fighting reignited on March 2, following a US-Israeli assault on Iran that began on February 28. Hezbollah claimed responsibility for firing suicide drones against Israeli troops in northern Israel.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres stated in Beirut on Saturday that diplomatic solutions are still possible to end the war between Israel and Hezbollah. He urged the international community to support Lebanon and emphasized that there is no military solution. Guterres highlighted the availability of diplomatic channels, including his special coordinator for Lebanon and key member states, to bring parties to the table. The conflict escalated after Hezbollah attacked Israel following the killing of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Guterres condemned attacks against UNIFIL peacekeepers, stating they are unacceptable and may constitute war crimes, referencing the recent wounding of three peacekeepers. He affirmed efforts to de-escalate the situation and cease hostilities.

Aid groups are warning of a humanitarian crisis in Lebanon as war has displaced over 800,000 people in just 10 days, approximately one in seven Lebanese citizens. This displacement follows a recent escalation between Hezbollah and Israel, with Israeli strikes becoming more intense and unpredictable. Many of the displaced are without shelter, as government-run shelters are overwhelmed, and the government struggles to provide adequate assistance to the affected population. The strikes, targeting areas beyond specific locations, have resulted in over 700 deaths, including 103 children, according to Lebanon's health ministry. The current situation is reportedly more difficult than the previous conflict, leaving many like Fatima Nazha struggling to find adequate shelter and basic necessities.