On Monday, Israeli airstrikes on Lebanon resulted in at least 558 deaths, marking one of the deadliest days since the Hezbollah-Israel conflict intensified following the Gaza war. The strikes targeted Hezbollah strongholds in southern Beirut and other parts of the country, including densely populated residential areas, as reported by Lebanon’s health ministry. The victims included at least 50 children and 94 women, while four healthcare workers were killed, and 16 paramedics injured, according to the World Health Organization.
Targeted Strikes in Beirut
On Tuesday, the Israeli Défense Forces (IDF) confirmed carrying out another “targeted strike” in Beirut, particularly in the Ghobeiri area, a known Hezbollah stronghold. A Lebanese security source revealed that two floors of a residential building in this area were destroyed in the attack, which also damaged nearby cars. While the IDF did not immediately release details about the strike, an AFP photographer confirmed the destruction in the densely packed neighbourhood.
Hezbollah’s Response and Leadership
Hezbollah, the powerful militant group based in Lebanon, acknowledged the Israeli airstrikes but denied earlier reports that one of their senior commanders, Ali Karake, was killed. Hezbollah’s leadership, including Karake, reportedly moved to safety following the strikes. This comes after the death of Ibrahim Aqil, a prominent Hezbollah commander, who was killed in a previous Israeli strike in southern Beirut last Friday.
Broader Context of the Conflict
The escalating violence between Hezbollah and Israel began in October 2023, following the eruption of the Gaza war. Since then, both sides have been exchanging cross-border fire almost daily. However, Monday’s Israeli strikes marked a significant escalation, targeting not only Hezbollah’s military infrastructure but also civilian areas, leading to widespread casualties. This surge in violence mirrors the intensity of the 2006 war between Hezbollah and Israel, which devastated much of Lebanon.
The strikes also follow coordinated explosions of communication devices in Lebanon last week, which killed 39 people and injured thousands. These acts, combined with Israel’s aerial bombardments, have pushed Lebanon to the brink of a humanitarian disaster, with hospitals struggling to cope with the influx of casualties.
Humanitarian Crisis and International Concerns
As the death toll mounts, international organizations have expressed deep concerns over the rising civilian casualties in Lebanon. The World Health Organization called for the protection of healthcare workers and civilian infrastructure amid the conflict, while humanitarian agencies are working to provide relief to those affected by the ongoing airstrikes.
The Israeli military has justified its actions as part of its broader strategy to dismantle Hezbollah’s military capabilities, but critics argue that the high civilian toll is unacceptable. The situation remains tense, with no signs of de-escalation in sight.
In response to the worsening conflict, calls for international intervention have intensified, with the United Nations urging both sides to adhere to international humanitarian law and avoid targeting civilians. However, with Hezbollah and Israel locked in a seemingly intractable struggle, the prospect for peace appears distant.
