On Wednesday, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken stressed that “now is the time” to bring an end to the Gaza war and urged Israel to prevent further escalation with Iran. Israel has been engaged in conflicts with Iran-backed Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon, and has vowed to retaliate for a missile attack by Iran on October 1.
In southern Lebanon, Israeli strikes devastated the city of Tyre, with extensive damage reported and residents fleeing in large numbers. Seven buildings were destroyed, and over 400 apartments were damaged, according to local disaster management officials. UNESCO expressed concern over the impact of the strikes on Tyre’s World Heritage site.
Meanwhile, Israel issued new evacuation warnings for southern Beirut following drone strikes in the city. Blinken’s visit to Israel, his 11th since the start of the war, continues U.S. efforts to end the conflict and mitigate regional consequences. He emphasized that Israel should avoid actions that might lead to a broader escalation.
As the humanitarian crisis in Gaza worsens, with winter approaching and aid shortages mounting, Blinken acknowledged progress in relief efforts but emphasized the need for more. Meanwhile, tensions in Lebanon remain high, with Hezbollah continuing rocket attacks and Israel responding with airstrikes, underscoring the fragile situation along Israel’s northern border.
