Smoke was observed in Beirut during the night of October 1 and into the following day as the Israeli military confirmed that it had conducted strikes on targets associated with Hezbollah. This escalation followed the launch of ballistic missiles from Iran aimed at Israel.

**Middle East Crisis Update: Tensions Escalate Following Iran Missile Attack; Israel Strikes Beirut** The situation in the Middle East is intensifying as Israel responds to a recent missile attack from Iran. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Iran will "pay for" its actions during a meeting of the security cabinet. In retaliation, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have launched airstrikes on the southern suburbs of Beirut, targeting sites associated with Hezbollah. According to a Lebanese security source, at least five Israeli strikes were reported in the early hours of Wednesday. The Israeli military has issued multiple evacuation orders for buildings in the affected areas, emphasizing its focus on Hezbollah installations. As the region braces for further escalation, analysts suggest that this attack may signal the onset of a long-feared regional conflict. The situation remains fluid, and developments are being closely monitored.

**Israel-Lebanon Update: UK Advocates for 21-Day Ceasefire Amid Intensified Israeli Strikes on Lebanon** Israel has reported conducting airstrikes on 75 Hezbollah positions overnight, despite increasing international calls for a ceasefire. The United Kingdom has joined the chorus of nations urging for a 21-day halt to hostilities as tensions escalate in the region. The situation remains critical as Israel continues its military operations against Hezbollah, responding to ongoing threats and provocations.