Israeli forces launched a deadly attack on the ancient city of Tyre in southern Lebanon on Tuesday, killing at least eight people and forcing thousands to flee their homes. The assault came just hours after US President Donald Trump insisted that a peace deal with Iran was imminent.

The Israeli military issued a forced displacement order for the entire city of Tyre, including for the first time the Christian quarter where many displaced people had sought shelter. Shortly after the warning, a devastating strike was carried out.

Tyre has been repeatedly targeted in recent days, with five killed on Monday and four paramedics wounded. At least nine people were killed in Israeli attacks elsewhere in Lebanon on Monday.

Trump told reporters he was in the "final throes of what will be a very, very good deal." He claimed the Strait of Hormuz blockade would be lifted "immediately upon signing," which could happen in two or three days. Trump added that the US could "very easily" spend another two or three weeks bombing, leaving Iran with nothing, but that would delay the strait's opening.

The latest escalation began with Israel's bombardment of Beirut on Sunday, prompting Iran to launch missiles at northern Israel. Trump reportedly called Netanyahu to ask him not to retaliate, but Israel struck Iran early Monday. Israeli forces hit Iranian air defense systems and a petrochemical plant, while Iran retaliated by targeting a similar facility in Haifa and two Israeli airbases.

Trump warned Netanyahu: "You better be careful or you will be on your own very soon." Netanyahu responded that Israel has a full right to self-defense and is exercising it as required.

Iran has made clear that any deal with the US must include an end to fighting in Lebanon. The Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson said Washington was "directly responsible" for the escalation. Lebanon's Health Ministry reported the overall death toll from the Israeli offensive has reached 3,666 since March 2, with 11,321 injured.

Source: www.aljazeera.com