Israeli army again issues evacuation orders for Beirut's southern suburbs ahead of strikes

ISTANBUL

The Israeli army again issued evacuation warnings on Friday for residents of the southern suburbs of Beirut, urging them to leave the area immediately.

In a reposted statement on the US social media company X, Israeli army spokesperson Avichay Adraee repeated an earlier warning directed at residents of seven neighborhoods in Beirut’s southern suburbs.

The warning specifically mentioned the neighborhoods of Haret Hreik, Ghobeiry, Laylaki, Hadath, Burj al-Barajneh, Tahwitat al-Ghadir, and Chiyah.

Adraee said that activities by Hezbollah in the area were forcing the Israeli army to act against the group, while claiming the military did not intend to harm civilians.

“For your safety, we urge you to evacuate immediately and not return to these neighborhoods until further notice,” the statement said.

He also warned that “it would not hesitate to strike anyone located near Hezbollah members, facilities, or military equipment,” adding that remaining in the area would put residents’ lives at risk.

Hezbollah began targeting Israeli military sites on March 2 in response to ongoing Israeli attacks on Lebanon despite the November 2024 ceasefire and the killing of Iran’s then-Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei in Tehran.

Israel expanded its campaign the same day with airstrikes on Beirut’s southern suburbs and areas in southern and eastern Lebanon.

On March 3, Israel also launched a limited ground incursion into southern Lebanon after beginning a joint campaign with the US against Iran on Feb. 28.

Lebanese authorities said Thursday evening that Israel’s expanded attacks on the country have killed 733 people, injured 1,933, and displaced about 822,000 others.