Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon result in 22 deaths, according to the country’s health ministry. Among the deceased are eight children, following a series of air strikes that targeted areas south of Beirut amid ongoing conflict between Israel and the Lebanese armed group Hezbollah.
Details of the Airstrikes in Southern Lebanon Result in Multiple Casualties
The health ministry reported that eight people died when drones targeted three vehicles on the coastal highway near Barja, Jiyeh, and Saadiyat, approximately 20 kilometers from Beirut. Additional strikes killed four people in Sidon and the towns of Maaliyeh, Chaaitiyeh, and Naqoura. Later updates confirmed six fatalities in the village of Arab Salim, three in Roumine, and one in Harouf.
The Israeli military stated that it targeted Hezbollah weapons storage facilities and rocket launchers in several locations. Residents of nine towns and villages in southern Lebanon were instructed to evacuate as the military warned of further forceful actions against Hezbollah in the area.
Conflict and Responses
Hezbollah reported attacks on Israeli troops in southern Lebanon using drones, rockets, and explosive devices. The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) expressed concern over increased activities by Hezbollah and Israeli soldiers near UN positions, highlighting the use of drones that caused explosions around peacekeeper bases.
On Tuesday, two paramedics from Lebanon’s Civil Defence emergency service were among 13 people killed in strikes. The health ministry accused Israeli forces of deliberately targeting paramedics during a rescue mission, calling it a violation of international humanitarian law. The Israeli military denied targeting rescue personnel, stating the strikes were aimed at a “terrorist” in the Mayfadoun area and that a follow-up strike was necessary to neutralize the threat.
Broader Impact and Ongoing Conflict
Since a ceasefire announced nearly a month ago, the Lebanese health ministry reports more than 400 deaths across the country and over 10,600 homes damaged or destroyed. Israel has intensified air and artillery strikes in southern Lebanon, targeting Hezbollah fighters and infrastructure. Hezbollah has responded with drone, rocket, and mortar attacks on Israeli troops and northern Israeli communities.
Efforts to end the fighting include upcoming talks between Israeli and Lebanese officials in Washington. However, Hezbollah’s leader has dismissed these efforts, stating the group will not abandon the battlefield. The conflict began in early March following a joint US-Israel attack on Iran and subsequent Hezbollah rocket attacks on Israel, leading to Israeli air strikes and a ground invasion of southern Lebanon.