Lebanon prepares for possible emergency
In anticipation of a possible further escalation of the conflict in the Middle East, Lebanese residents in areas controlled by Hezbollah are preparing for the worst. Eyewitnesses report that more and more people are leaving their homes in the suburbs of Lebanon's capital, Beirut. "I'm not afraid for myself, but for my children," a resident told the German Press Agency.
Lebanese security sources said: "The situation is very worrying." Many residents from the southern suburbs of Beirut are reportedly looking for accommodation outside the Hezbollah-dominated areas in Lebanon. Hospitals are preparing for any emergency cases, especially for the next 72 hours, according to informed sources in the health sector.
On Tuesday evening, Israel killed Hezbollah commander Fuad Schukr in a suburb of Beirut. Hours later, Hamas' external leader, Ismail Haniyeh, was killed in an attack in the Iranian capital, Tehran. Iran and Hamas blamed Israel for Haniyeh's death and immediately threatened retaliation. Israel has not yet publicly responded to the accusations.
Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah also threatened retaliation: "The enemy (Israel) should expect anger and revenge," he said in a video message at Schukr's funeral on Thursday. Hezbollah will certainly respond to the killings with "true retaliation."
In light of the threats from Iran and Hezbollah, local authorities are urging residents to stay calm and be prepared for potential emergency situations. As tensions continue to rise, Lebanese hospitals have increased their readiness and are on high alert for any unexpected incidents.
