Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon killed at least 558 people on Monday, including 80 children. The Lebanese government reported this as the deadliest escalation since the Gaza war began.
Witnesses reported that smoke rose from the city of Baalbeck in the Bekaa Valley. Arab quickly nations condemned Israel for this escalation. The conflict intensified after Hamas launched a major attack on Israel, which drew Hezbollah and other Iran-backed groups into the violence.
Israel claimed to have struck about 1,300 Hezbollah targets in a 24-hour period. One targeted strike hit a senior Hezbollah figure in Beirut. Reports indicated new air raids in eastern Lebanon, while Hezbollah retaliated by targeting five sites in Israel. In Haifa, residents rushed for cover as air raid sirens blared.
The Lebanese health ministry stated that over 1,200 people were injured. Thousands of families fled their homes, facing a dire situation. One resident described life as a constant bombardment.
Global leaders called for restraint from both sides. For instance, Egypt urged the UN Security Council to intervene. Iraq also sought an urgent meeting of Arab states amidst rising tensions.
Officials said the latest Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon aimed at Hezbollah’s military infrastructure. Defense Minister Yoav Gallant described this week as challenging for Hezbollah, highlighting significant losses.
Hezbollah’s leadership announced its readiness for broader military action. Consequently, communities near the Israeli border experienced increased tension.
The conflict has displaced tens of thousands on both sides. Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati called for UN assistance against Israel’s actions.
US President Joe Biden expressed concern and aimed for de-escalation. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres voiced alarm over civilian casualties in Lebanon. Iran accused Israel of trying to widen the conflict.
In Gaza, the death toll surpassed 41,000, primarily civilians, due to ongoing military operations, AFP reports.
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