Israel steps up Lebanon attacks; White House protester’s shocking act
Israel has ramped up its airstrikes in Lebanon as Aussies flee while a protester makes a disturbing move outside the White House. See photos, video.
Israel has stepped up its attacks in Lebanon as Australians continued to flee the region amid escalating tensions over a possible “significant and serious” retaliation by the Israeli military against Iran.
Official Lebanese media said Israeli strikes hit south Beirut, some of them “very violent”, in one of the most intense barrages yet.
“Israeli enemy warplanes carried out four very violent strikes on (Beirut’s) southern suburbs, and one strike on the Chweifat” area, with ambulances rushing to the site, Lebanon’s National News Agency said.
Meanwhile, outside the White House, an anti-Israel protester lit himself on fire during a rally ahead of the October 7 anniversary before shocked police officers and bystanders rushed to his aid.
The unidentified man, who claimed to be a journalist, screamed in pain as his left arm was engulfed in flames before the crowd doused him in water.
Police said he was taken to hospital with non-life threatening injuries.
As fighting intensified between Israel and Hezbollah, up to 500 Australian citizens, residents and their family members are being flown out of Lebanon.
One charter flight has landed in Cyprus with Senator Penny Wong confirming the charter flight had 229 passengers on board.
Those coming off the flight told media they were “relieved” to be safe and on their way back to Australia. But many told reporters they felt guilt, having left family and friends behind.
A second flight was due to land imminently.
Ms Wong said there are two more flights planned for Sunday.
The Australian government is urging citizens to leave the country. Over 3000 Australians in Lebanon are registered with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) as wanting to depart.
Qantas will operate two free non-stop flights from Cyprus back to Sydney, the first of which is due to depart on Monday, according to the airline.
“The flights will be operated using a Qantas Boeing 787 and will be able to carry up to 440 Australians back home,” Qantas said in a statement.
“The first service is expected to depart Larnaca in Cyprus on Monday evening (local time), arriving in Sydney on Tuesday.
“The second direct Dreamliner service is expected to depart on Wednesday.”
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Originally published as Israel steps up Lebanon attacks; White House protester’s shocking act