The ongoing airstrikes by Israel have intensified the humanitarian crisis in Lebanon, with significant civilian casualties reported.
Lebanon's cultural heritage is at risk due to the conflict, prompting concerns from international bodies about the preservation of historical sites.
If the hostilities continue without a ceasefire, the situation in Lebanon may deteriorate further, leading to increased civilian casualties and displacement.
The rejection of a unilateral ceasefire could prolong the conflict, complicating diplomatic efforts and exacerbating regional tensions.
Lebanon Accuses Israel of Rejecting Ceasefire Amid Escalating Strikes
Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati has accused Israel of refusing to agree to a ceasefire with Hezbollah following a series of airstrikes on the southern suburbs of Beirut. The strikes, which occurred early Friday, marked the first such attacks this week on the stronghold of the Iran-backed group. Israeli aircraft reportedly carried out at least ten strikes, causing extensive damage and casualties, with reports indicating at least ten fatalities in the Baalbeck region alone.
Mikati condemned the Israeli strikes, stating that they are clear indicators of Israel's rejection of ceasefire efforts, particularly in light of recent diplomatic attempts by American envoys to negotiate peace. The Israeli military confirmed targeting Hezbollah positions in Beirut and the southern regions, amid ongoing tensions that have escalated since late September, with over 1,800 reported deaths in Lebanon since the conflict reignited.
US Mediation Efforts and Regional Impact
In a parallel development, the United States has reportedly urged Lebanon to consider a unilateral ceasefire to facilitate stalled negotiations between Israel and Hezbollah. However, Prime Minister Mikati denied that such a request was made by US envoy Amos Hochstein, emphasizing Lebanon's position against unilateral concessions.
The conflict has raised concerns about the impact on Lebanon's cultural heritage, particularly with UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the line of fire. A UN official expressed fears that ancient Phoenician cities could be irreparably damaged due to the ongoing hostilities. Meanwhile, the humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire, with Israeli airstrikes resulting in thousands of casualties, predominantly among civilians, and ongoing calls for a complete and permanent ceasefire from Palestinian authorities.
