Dozens of people have been killed in Israeli attacks across Lebanon, according to health authorities. The Israeli air force expanded its bombardment for a fourth consecutive day. This escalation occurs despite growing international calls for a ceasefire.
On Thursday, Lebanon’s Ministry of Public Health reported that at least 29 people were killed in the latest round of Israeli attacks. Most of the victims were Syrians in the town of Younine, located in the Bekaa Valley along the eastern border with Syria. Additionally, attacks struck several villages and towns in southern Lebanon, including Tyre. In the suburbs of the capital, Beirut, at least two people were killed, and 15 others were wounded.
The Israeli military announced late Thursday that air forces struck approximately 220 targets linked to the Lebanese armed group Hezbollah in the previous 24 hours. Earlier, they claimed to have killed Muhammad Hossein Sarur, whom they described as the head of Hezbollah’s aerial unit, during an attack in Beirut.
Hezbollah did not provide an immediate comment on Israel’s claims. However, in a series of statements on its Telegram channel, Hezbollah reported firing over 50 missiles at Ahihud, located north of Haifa. They also targeted Kiryat Shmona, military posts, and a command base in various areas in northern Israel. Additionally, Hezbollah claimed it used air defense weapons to force two Israeli warplanes to leave Lebanese airspace.
International Reactions and Diplomatic Efforts
Thursday’s attacks coincided with Israeli officials appearing to dismiss the growing international calls for a ceasefire. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated that world powers were advocating for a ceasefire. He announced that he would meet with Israeli officials in New York. Meanwhile, US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, speaking in London, emphasized that there remains room for diplomacy.
“Let me be clear,” Austin said, “Israel and Lebanon can choose a different path. Despite the sharp escalation in recent days, a diplomatic solution is still viable.”
The United States and France proposed an immediate 21-day ceasefire on Wednesday, expressing support for a cessation of hostilities in Gaza as well. However, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu swiftly rejected such proposals.
“Our policy is clear,” Netanyahu stated. “We’re continuing to strike Hezbollah with all our strength, and we won’t stop until we achieve all our objectives. First and foremost, we want the northern residents to return to their homes securely.” Netanyahu made these remarks upon arriving in New York, where he is scheduled to address the UN General Assembly on Friday. “This is our policy. Let no one mistake it.”
As violence continues to escalate, the humanitarian situation in Lebanon worsens. The recent attacks have resulted in significant casualties and have raised alarms internationally. The ongoing conflict highlights the urgent need for a resolution to avoid further loss of life and restore stability in the region. The world watches closely as tensions rise, hoping for a diplomatic solution to the crisis.
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