Live
Israel launches ‘earthquake’ strikes on Beirut as more Aussies flee Lebanon
Israel’s blitz of Beirut has set the Lebanon capital ablaze, as a terror attack at an Israeli bus shelter killed a female border guard and injured 10. Follow live updates.
Israeli troops are on high alert for possible long-range rocket launches by Hamas on the anniversary of the October 7 attacks, as the IDF continues to pound Beirut with air strikes.
As part of the anticipation for attacks, the Israeli military is boosting defences along the Gaza border and in the Netzarim Corridor area.
Hamas attacks on the anniversary are anticipated by the IDF, with fear rockets will be launched into central Israel.
The IDF said in a statement: “The Southern Command is prepared in defence and attack for several scenarios during the coming month, along with allowing memorial events in the [Gaza border communities] to be carried out safely.”
Chief of the Southern Command Maj. Gen. Yaron Finkelman warned: “We are on heightened alert for the coming days. At a high level of readiness with offensive actions.”
It comes as a terror attack was carried out at a bustling transport hub in southern Israel.
A border guard, 25, was killed and 10 others wounded in Be’er Sheva bus station.
Officials said the terrorist was shot dead.
Lebanon reported more than 30 strikes hit the southern suburbs of Beirut in “the most violent night” since the strikes began.
“The violent air strikes were accompanied by the flight of hostile reconnaissance aircraft and drones over the capital Beirut and the suburbs,” the report said.
Meanwhile, two mercy flights with hundreds of Australians were fully booked and were expected to fly on Sunday from Lebanon to Cyprus, according to DFAT.
Overnight, 407 Australians and immediate family members departed Lebanon on two Australian Government assisted flights.
— Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade 🇦🇺 (@dfat) October 6, 2024
Two more flights to Cyprus on Sunday are fully booked. Please do not travel to Beirut airport unless you have a confirmed seat. pic.twitter.com/8ugct538Ri
In the wake of another wave of air strikes on Beirut’s southern suburbs, Lebanon’s Prime Minister Najib Mikati has called on the international community to put pressure on Israel for a ceasefire.
FOLLOW UPDATES BELOW:
Join the conversation
Shock double family loss for Madonna
The Queen of Pop’s ‘talented’ younger brother has died of cancer, aged 63, just a month after the loss of another family member.
Read more
‘Cloak and dagger’: Harry quietly extends trip without Meghan
Prince Harry has opted to extend his trip to South Africa, increasing his separation from wife Meghan Markle, who has appeared out and about wearing a bright red dress.
Read more