### Large Explosion Rocks Beirut Amid Israel-Hezbollah Conflict

A significant explosion was reported in Beirut this evening, shortly after the Israeli military advised residents of a southern suburb to evacuate. On the ground, a BBC reporter recorded hearing six blasts, accompanied by the sound of drones flying overhead.

The chaos follows a series of Israeli strikes earlier today. Hezbollah, in retaliation, launched dozens of rockets into northern Israel. The escalating violence has prompted widespread concerns, significantly altering everyday life in Beirut. Empty restaurants and deserted streets paint a vivid picture of the changed cityscape, according to Nafiseh Kohnavard of the BBC World Service.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned recent remarks made by French President Emmanuel Macron. Macron, during a summit in Paris, called for an immediate ceasefire in Lebanon and an arms embargo against Israel. Netanyahu criticized Macron’s stance, arguing that it is inconsistent to both supply Israel with weapons and call for a ceasefire.

Netanyahu asserted, "As Israel fights the forces of barbarism led by Iran, all civilized countries should be standing firmly by Israel's side. Yet, President Macron and other Western leaders are now calling for arms embargoes against Israel. Shame on them."

In response, Macron's office emphasized France's longstanding friendship with Israel, characterizing Netanyahu's reaction as "excessive and detached from the friendship between France and Israel."

Over an hour after the explosions in Beirut, one affected area remains engulfed in flames. BBC correspondent Kohnavard reported seeing several secondary explosions, suggesting multiple air strikes at one location. Speculation is rife about the exact nature of the target, with some local media indicating it might have been a warehouse.

Reports from other sources, such as Anna Foster in Beirut, described witnessing a particularly large blast. Early indications suggest the possibility of a petrol station being hit, given the size and impact of the explosion. The blast triggered numerous secondary explosions, sending orange flashes into the sky and covering the area with thick smoke.

As of now, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have not issued an official statement regarding the explosions. The situation remains tense, with residents and observers on high alert for further developments.