Israel continues its 1-on-3 bombardment of Gaza and Lebanon and will fight back against Iran. Macron advises again- It’s time to cease fire
As the Israel-Hamas conflict reaches its one-year milestone, the Israeli military continues its operations without pause. In a notable escalation, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have ramped up airstrikes on the Gaza Strip and are also targeting Hezbollah in southern Lebanon, where tensions at the borders remain high. French President Emmanuel Macron recently engaged in discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on October 6, stressing that “the time for a ceasefire has arrived.”
Reports from Hamas-aligned media indicate that IDF airstrikes on October 6 hit a mosque and a school converted into a shelter in Gaza, leading to 26 fatalities and 93 injuries. The New York Times referenced an IDF statement that confirmed their early morning strike targeted a “command and control center” in the central city of Deir al-Balah, where Hamas allegedly used civilian structures for protection.
Additionally, Reuters highlighted that the IDF conducted nighttime airstrikes in the southern suburbs of Beirut, focusing on Hezbollah’s intelligence headquarters and weapon storage facilities. Eyewitnesses described massive fireballs lighting up the night sky and explosions reverberating throughout the city. This marked the heaviest bombardment of Beirut since the IDF escalated its actions against Hezbollah. In response, Hezbollah fired rockets towards Haifa, a city in northern Israel.
Furthermore, reports suggest that Iran launched missiles towards Israel last week, leading the IDF to announce intentions for a counterattack. Israeli Defense Minister Gallant spoke with CNN, explaining that Israel’s response has been closely coordinated with the United States. He is expected to speak with U.S. Defense Secretary Austin on October 9 and emphasized that Israel would make independent decisions, stating, “All options are on the table.”
The Washington Post noted that during their exchange, Macron reiterated to Netanyahu that “the time for a ceasefire has come.” Netanyahu’s office later expressed expectations for support from allied nations.
As the anniversary of the conflict approaches, regional tensions have intensified, prompting authorities to implement restrictions on gatherings. Memorial events have been scaled back, with around 40,000 individuals registering for a commemoration in a Tel Aviv park on October 7. However, the organizers, which include families of victims and hostages, announced that the event will be live-streamed, allowing only invited guests to attend in person.