theand Lebanon and Gaza under bombing. In the Middle East, Israeli bombing of neighboring Lebanon has increased this Sunday, November 17th. According to Agence France-Presse, Benjamin Netanyahu’s army said it had struck more than 200 targets, including strongholds belonging to the pro-Iranian Hezbollah movement.
Hezbollah media chief dies
In a statement, Hezbollah said Hajj Mouhammad Afif al-Naboulsi, the “top media leader responsible for media relations,” was killed in a “criminal Zionist” attack. According to a Lebanese security source, the Lebanese official was killed along with four other people in a strike that hit the heart of the capital Beirut. Information confirmed late this Sunday evening by the Israeli army in a press release in which it stated that it had eliminated the “propaganda chief” of the pro-Iranian movement. According to the Jewish State Army, Mohammad Afif “was directly involved in Hezbollah’s terrorist activity against the State of Israel,” the statement added.
Schools closed in Beirut
After the Israeli attacks that hit the heart of the Lebanese capital a few hours away, the Lebanese Ministry of Education announced this Sunday that schools in and around Beirut will remain closed on Monday and Tuesday. According to a press release issued by the ministry, in addition to Beirut, some sectors of Chouf, Metn-north, Baabda and Aley are affected by these closures. Therefore, all in-person classes, in public, private and higher education schools, have been cancelled.
Eleven people were killed on Sunday and 48 others injured in Israeli attacks on towns in the Tire region of southern Lebanon, where Hezbollah is strongly rooted, the Lebanese Ministry of Health also announced.
At least 60 people killed in the Gaza Strip
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As conflict continues to rage in the Gaza Strip since the terrorist attacks on October 7, 2023, several dozen people have been killed by Israeli attacks in the Palestinian enclave. According to Civil Defense spokesman Mahmoud Bassal, at least 60 people were killed in Israeli raids.
The deadliest strike occurred on the night between Saturday and Sunday in Beit Lahia, in the north, on a five-storey building. At least 34 bodies, including women and children, have been pulled from the rubble and dozens of people are still missing, Bassal told Agence France-Presse.
How does the international community typically respond to escalations in Middle Eastern conflicts?
Interview: The Impact of Recent Escalations in the Middle East
Time.news Editor: Welcome to this special interview. Today, we’re delving into the recent escalations in the Middle East, particularly regarding the Israeli bombing of Lebanon and the death of a key Hezbollah media figure. We’re pleased to have Dr. Samira Khaled, an expert on Middle Eastern politics, join us. Dr. Khaled, thank you for being here.
Dr. Samira Khaled: Thank you for having me. It’s a critical time, and I’m glad to discuss these important issues.
Editor: Let’s start with the recent surge in Israeli airstrikes against Lebanon. Reports indicate that more than 200 targets have been struck, primarily targeting Hezbollah. What do you think is motivating this intensified military action?
Khaled: The surge in bombing reflects a combination of military strategy and political signaling. Israel aims to diminish Hezbollah’s military capabilities, especially as tensions remain high. By striking these targets, they hope to send a message of deterrence not only to Hezbollah but also to Iran, which supports the group. The timing is also crucial, as it demonstrates that Israel is willing to act decisively in what they perceive as a growing threat.
Editor: A significant event has also occurred with the death of Hezbollah’s media chief, Hajj Mouhammad Afif al-Naboulsi. How do you see this loss impacting Hezbollah’s operations and public relations?
Khaled: Al-Naboulsi’s death is quite symbolic. He was a central figure in shaping Hezbollah’s narrative and communications strategy. Losing someone in such a pivotal role can cause short-term disruptions in messaging. However, Hezbollah is known for its resilience and has established a robust media apparatus over the years. They may face challenges in the immediate aftermath, but they will likely adapt and replace him quickly to maintain control over their narrative.
Editor: The Lebanese Ministry of Education has announced the closure of schools in Beirut as a safety precaution. What are the broader implications of such decisions on Lebanese society, especially in the context of ongoing conflicts?
Khaled: School closures are deeply indicative of the pervasive anxiety within Lebanese society. They reflect not only the immediate dangers posed by airstrikes but also the longer-term destabilization caused by ongoing conflict. Education is crucial for Lebanon’s youth and future, and disruptions can have lasting effects on their development and the nation’s stability. Families may also face increased economic pressures as they navigate the consequences of violence and uncertainty.
Editor: With education and public safety at risk, what do you think international responses should be to this escalating conflict?
Khaled: The international community must prioritize dialogue and seek diplomatic solutions. It’s crucial to de-escalate tensions and address the humanitarian needs of those affected. Additionally, an international framework for monitoring ceasefires and facilitating humanitarian aid could help stabilize the situation. Sanctions and military responses have tended to exacerbate rather than alleviate violence, and we must learn from past failures.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Khaled, for your insights today. As the situation in the Middle East continues to evolve, it remains vital for our audience to stay informed and engaged.
Khaled: Thank you for having me. It’s essential that we continue to shed light on these issues and advocate for peace and understanding in the region.