Israeli airstrikes on Hezbollah positions in Lebanon have resulted in the deaths of 182 people and injuries to over 700, marking the deadliest cross-border escalation since the outbreak of conflict in Gaza on October 7, according to the Lebanese health ministry.
The war erupted following a significant attack by the Palestinian group Hamas on Israel, which has since involved Hezbollah and various Iran-backed groups in the region. On Monday, Israeli forces claimed to have struck more than 300 Hezbollah targets, while Hezbollah retaliated by targeting three sites in northern Israel.
The Lebanese health ministry reported that among the casualties are children, women, and health workers. The violence has forced many civilians to flee their homes, with shelters filling up as people seek refuge from the bombardment. An official from Tyre reported that hundreds of displaced individuals have sought safety in schools.
Israeli military spokesman Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari warned that strikes would continue for the foreseeable future, advising civilians to avoid areas associated with Hezbollah. He indicated that the Israeli military plans to conduct more extensive and precise operations against terrorist targets in Lebanon.
As the conflict escalates, world leaders have urged both Israel and Hezbollah to de-escalate and prevent a wider war. Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati called on the United Nations and global powers to intervene against what he described as Israel’s aggressive actions aimed at destroying Lebanese villages and towns.
The situation remains tense, with both sides exchanging fire and a significant number of civilians affected. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed concerns about Lebanon potentially becoming “another Gaza” and noted that neither side appears interested in a ceasefire.
As the conflict continues, the humanitarian impact is becoming increasingly severe, with calls for urgent international intervention to address the escalating violence and its consequences for civilian populations in both Lebanon and Israel.
Sources By Agencies