Over 50 Killed In Israeli Strikes On Southern Lebanon; U.N. Calls Gaza Conditions ‘Apocalyptic’

The Israeli military conducted overnight airstrikes on the southern suburbs of Beirut, Lebanon, marking the first such actions in several days. This renewed military activity coincides with alarming reports from U.N. leaders, who described the situation in northern Gaza as “apocalyptic.”

Lebanon’s acting Prime Minister Najib Mikati condemned the strikes, stating that the Israeli aggression indicates a blatant disregard for cease-fire efforts. According to Lebanon’s National News Agency, Mikati emphasized that Israel’s actions reflect a rejection of diplomatic initiatives aimed at de-escalation.

Casualties And Damage Reported

The airstrikes have had devastating effects. Reports from Lebanon’s Health Ministry indicate that at least 52 individuals have died and 72 others sustained injuries due to the bombardments that targeted northeastern villages, which had previously been less affected by the ongoing conflict. In the Dahiyeh district of Beirut, Israeli warplanes reportedly destroyed numerous buildings; however, it appears that most residents had evacuated prior to the strikes, leading to no immediate reports of casualties in that area.

Despite increasing calls for a cease-fire from the United States and other international entities, Israel has intensified its military operations against Hezbollah, extending the conflict beyond Lebanon’s borders. This comes at a time when Israel is also engaged in a protracted battle with Hamas in northern Gaza.

Heavy Toll On Lives

The toll of the ongoing conflicts has been staggering. Since the outbreak of hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah last year, the Lebanese Health Ministry reports at least 2,900 fatalities and over 13,150 injuries, not including the latest casualties. Alarmingly, a significant portion of those killed, approximately 25%, were women and children.

In the ongoing war against Hamas in Gaza, Palestinian health officials claim that more than 43,000 people have lost their lives, though these figures do not specify the numbers of civilians versus combatants. This conflict escalated after a surprise attack by Palestinian militants on October 7, 2023, resulting in the deaths of around 1,200 individuals, predominantly civilians, and the abduction of 250 others.

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