Dozens Killed and Injured in Recent Israeli Airstrikes in Lebanon
In a devastating escalation of violence, Israeli airstrikes have resulted in the deaths of at least 25 individuals and injuries to 14 others across two towns in central and southern Lebanon. The Lebanese Ministry of Health reported that the death toll from an attack on the town of Barja, located in the Chouf District, has reached 20, with ongoing rescue operations suggesting that this number may increase as more victims are recovered from the rubble. Additionally, five bodies were retrieved from a house in Al-Shahabiyeh, a town in the Tyre district, which was also targeted by Israeli airstrikes.
The situation has intensified with the activation of sirens in Israeli settlements along the Lebanese border, indicating a heightened state of alert. Reports indicate that dozens of rockets were launched from southern Lebanon towards Israeli positions in the Galilee region, prompting the Israeli military to issue evacuation orders for residents in Nabatieh, anticipating further military operations against Hezbollah.
Ongoing Conflict and Humanitarian Crisis
The violence follows a series of clashes that erupted after Israel's military campaign began against Hezbollah in response to the ongoing conflict in Gaza, which has claimed the lives of approximately 146,000 Palestinians since October 7, 2023. Since September 23, Israeli airstrikes have expanded significantly, affecting numerous areas in Lebanon, including the capital, Beirut. The conflict has led to a staggering total of 3,013 deaths and 13,553 injuries in Lebanon, with a significant number of casualties among women and children. Furthermore, around 1.4 million people have been displaced due to the escalating violence.
Hezbollah has retaliated by launching missiles, drones, and artillery fire targeting Israeli military sites and settlements. While Israel has acknowledged some of its losses, military censorship restricts detailed reporting on the extent of its casualties. Observers note that the ongoing conflict has resulted in a humanitarian crisis, with calls for international attention and intervention growing louder.
