Rising Casualties in Beirut Airstrikes
The ongoing conflict in Lebanon has escalated dramatically following a series of Israeli airstrikes in Beirut, resulting in a rising death toll. As of November 23, 2024, the Lebanese Ministry of Health reported that 15 individuals have died and 63 others have been injured due to an Israeli airstrike that targeted an eight-story residential building in the Basta area. The airstrike, which occurred at dawn on Saturday, completely destroyed the building and caused significant damage to surrounding structures. Initial reports indicated a lower death toll, but the situation has worsened as rescue operations continue.
Denials of Targeting Hezbollah Leaders
Israeli sources claimed that the airstrike aimed to eliminate a prominent Hezbollah leader, Muhammad Haidar, though this has been denied by Lebanese officials. A Lebanese security source confirmed that there was no Hezbollah leader present in the targeted building, and Hezbollah parliamentarian Amin Sherri emphasized that the attack was intended to instill fear among the residents of Beirut. This incident is part of a broader pattern of Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon, which have included multiple raids in southern suburbs, resulting in further destruction and civilian casualties.
Ongoing Clashes and Military Responses
In addition to the airstrikes, clashes have erupted in various regions of southern and eastern Lebanon. Hezbollah reported engaging in combat with Israeli forces attempting to infiltrate the town of Deir Mimas, resulting in casualties on both sides. The group has also retaliated by targeting Israeli military sites with missiles and drones. The Israeli military, in response, has conducted operations against Hezbollah positions, claiming to have discovered Iranian-made missile launch pads in the region. The ongoing conflict has led to significant humanitarian crises, with over 3,600 deaths and more than 15,000 injuries reported since the escalation began in late September, alongside the displacement of approximately 1.4 million people.
