The Israeli jets carried out an extensive airstrike on Hezbollah’s main naval base near Beirut overnight, as per the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).
The attack was meant to disable Hezbollah’s naval capabilities by destroying critical assets like the base’s headquarters, ammunition storage, and fast vessels.
The IDF said the naval unit at this base is specifically designed to target Israeli navy vessels and crucial maritime installations. Ahead of the airstrike, residents were warned to leave the area for safety.
Hezbollah, known for its coastal defense and guerrilla-style operations, focuses on anti-ship operations over open-sea combat. Per reports, the Iran-backed group is developing or buying unmanned underwater vehicles for covert operations.
Additionally, Hezbollah has launched drone attacks on Israel’s offshore natural gas reserves.
After the October 7 Hamas attacks, Hezbollah intensified its military operations, launching missiles and drones into northern Israel daily.
The ongoing conflict has forced over 68,000 residents to leave their homes in northern Israel, as per the government estimates issued on September 29.
Hezbollah officials have warned that they will continue attacks to deter Israelis from going home, causing 59 reported deaths.
The IDF’s overnight operations extended beyond the naval base, targeting weapons stockpiles and command centers, some of which were located underground.
Israeli forces also hit three command centers associated with Hezbollah’s aerial operations, known as Unit 127, which is responsible for drone attacks on Israel.
Despite being prohibited from operating in southern Lebanon by United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701, Hezbollah has maintained and expanded its military presence, worsening the situation in the region.
References: Times of Israel, ANI
Israeli Attacks Destroy Hezbollah’s Main Naval Base In Beirut appeared first on Marine Insight – The Maritime Industry Guide
Source: Maritime Shipping News