Emergency crews search for survivors in Beirut amid Israeli airstrikes

BEIRUT, Lebanon — Emergency crews continued searching for survivors Tuesday night as Israeli airstrikes pounded the Lebanese capital, leaving buildings in ruins and streets filled with debris. The strikes, which intensified over the past 24 hours, have targeted multiple districts across the city, causing widespread destruction and forcing residents to flee their homes.

Smoke billowed from several high-rise buildings in the southern suburbs of Beirut, where explosions were reported throughout the evening. Rescue teams, including firefighters and paramedics, worked through the night to clear rubble and locate those trapped beneath collapsed structures. Medical personnel treated the injured at makeshift field hospitals established in nearby parks and schools.

The Israeli military stated that the operations were aimed at dismantling Hezbollah infrastructure and preventing further attacks on northern Israel. Hezbollah, a Lebanese militant group backed by Iran, has engaged in cross-border exchanges with Israeli forces for weeks, escalating tensions that have now reached the capital.

Local hospitals reported being overwhelmed with casualties, including civilians and security forces. Doctors described a surge in trauma cases, with many patients suffering from shrapnel wounds and crush injuries. Some medical facilities have run low on supplies, prompting calls for international aid.

Residents described scenes of chaos as sirens wailed and people ran for cover. "We heard the explosions and ran into the basement," said one woman who spoke on condition of anonymity. "My neighbors are still missing. We don't know if they are alive."

The Lebanese government has condemned the strikes as disproportionate and called for an immediate ceasefire. President Michel Aoun urged the international community to intervene and protect civilians from further harm. Prime Minister Nawaf Salam announced that the country is on the brink of a humanitarian crisis.

International observers have expressed concern over the escalating violence. The United Nations has called for restraint and urged both sides to de-escalate the conflict. Diplomatic efforts are underway to negotiate a停火, but no agreement has been reached.

As of late Tuesday, the death toll remains unclear. Authorities have not released official figures, citing the ongoing nature of the search and rescue operations. Families of the missing have gathered at hospitals and community centers, hoping for news of their loved ones.

The situation remains fluid, with additional strikes expected in the coming hours. Emergency services are on high alert, and residents are advised to stay indoors and avoid affected areas. The international community is monitoring the situation closely, with calls for a diplomatic resolution growing louder.

The search for survivors continues as night falls over Beirut, leaving the city in a state of uncertainty and fear.