Watch: Heavy gunfire heard as BBC reports from border of Israel and Lebanon
Heavy Gunfire Heard Near Israel-Lebanon Border
Standing in the Israeli town of Metula, situated just a few kilometers from the Lebanese border, BBC correspondent Jon Donnison captured the sound of intense gunfire. For ten minutes, the rhythmic bursts of machine gun fire reverberated across the valley, occasionally interrupted by the thunderous echoes of artillery rounds. The Israeli military claims it is advancing to dislodge Hezbollah fighters, backed by Iran, from Lebanon’s southern regions.
International Reactions to Iranian Strikes
Celebrations erupted in the UK, Spain, and the United States on Saturday following news of Iranian missile attacks. Qatar, the UAE, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Jordan have reported intercepting missiles launched from Iran, targeting US military installations on their soil. Meanwhile, BBC journalist Lyse Doucet, who recently returned to Iran after a prolonged absence, described the lingering impact of the nation’s recent crackdown on widespread anti-government demonstrations.
“It was difficult to maintain hope while confined in prison, especially with the knowledge that my husband and I were set to face a decade of imprisonment for espionage,” shared a British woman detained by Iran, speaking hours before her sentence was finalized.
Protests Continue Amid Economic Struggles
Iran’s anti-government demonstrations, now entering their 13th day, have intensified over the past week. Reports confirm the unrest has persisted for 13 consecutive days, with the most extensive protests recorded on Thursday. In a video authenticated by BBC Persian, demonstrators chanted slogans against the government, highlighting their growing discontent. The movement, initially sparked by economic grievances, has since expanded into a nationwide outcry.
Kurdish Prisons and Gaza Aid
Kurdish-controlled detention facilities reportedly hold around 8,000 individuals suspected of ties to ISIS, alongside approximately 34,000 family members in nearby camps. BBC Middle East correspondent Hugo Bachega, based at the Iranian-Armenian border, noted the continued internet blackout following the protests, emphasizing its role in restricting communication. He has been a vocal advocate for maintaining the momentum of the demonstrations against Iran’s ruling regime.
Execution Threat and Mortuary Footage
Relatives of 26-year-old Erfan Soltani, detained last week, informed BBC Persian that he is scheduled for execution on Wednesday. BBC Verify has analyzed footage from a Tehran mortuary, revealing images of numerous bodies that may provide insight into the scale of casualties from the ongoing crackdown.
Meanwhile, in Manger Square, hundreds gathered to enjoy festivities featuring music, dancing, and Santa-like figures distributing treats. The celebrations coincided with the arrival of a vehicle that once transported Pope Francis during his 2014 visit to Bethlehem.
