Israel launches airstrikes on Tyre, southern Lebanon, breaching cease‑fire

Israel’s Defense Forces issued a rare evacuation order for the historic city of Tyre, including its Christian neighbourhood, claiming Hezbollah operatives were present. Within hours, Israeli aircraft bombed multiple sites in Tyre and surrounding villages, killing at least nine civilians and wounding dozens, with other reports citing 14 dead and 20 injured across the southern Lebanese strip.

The strikes damaged a UNESCO‑listed archaeological site in Tyre, prompting Lebanon’s Culture Ministry to denounce the destruction of ancient columns and capitals. Iran warned Israel to halt the operations, stating any continuation would trigger a harsher response. Hezbollah later claimed retaliation against Israeli forces, while Israeli officials reaffirmed their intent to target the militia despite the cease‑fire brokered earlier this year.

The escalation follows a recent Israeli raid on Beirut’s southern suburbs and reciprocal missile exchanges between Israel and Iran, raising fears of a broader regional conflict.