Nearly 700,000 Flee Lebanon as Hegseth Vows ‘Most Intense Day’ of Strikes

Nearly 700,000 people have fled their homes in Lebanon, the United Nations reports, as Israel’s widespread evacuation orders and intensifying airstrikes turn the country into a major new front in the expanding Middle East conflict. The escalation is affecting the wider region, driving displacement, worsening humanitarian concerns, and creating turmoil in global energy markets. Meanwhile, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said Tuesday would see the “most intense day” of U.S. strikes on Iran, even as global markets rallied following President Donald Trump’s remark that the war could be “over soon.”

Key Developments on Day 11

Israeli airstrikes continued across Lebanon and Iran. A Tehran resident warned that the city could face severe destruction if bombardment continues.
Tens of thousands of displaced people in Beirut are seeking shelter in schools, government buildings, vehicles, and along the waterfront.
Hegseth described Tuesday as the most intense day of American strikes since the conflict began.
The Trump administration eased restrictions on Russian oil exports to counter rising gas prices amid the disruption of global energy markets.
More than 1,800 people have died across the region, with no diplomatic efforts currently underway to halt the fighting.
Shipping through the Strait of Hormuz has slowed, leading Pakistan to escort tankers to protect energy supplies.
Iranian officials report that U.S. and Israeli strikes have killed about 1,300 people in Iran, while nearly 500 have died in Lebanon, according to state media.
Strikes on Iranian fuel depots have caused hazardous conditions, including black rain and poor air quality.
New video evidence suggests an American missile likely struck an elementary school in Iran, challenging claims that Iran was responsible.