Escalation of Violence: Israeli Airstrikes in Southern Lebanon Result in Heavy Casualties
Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon on Monday have resulted in the deaths of at least 274 individuals and injuries to over 700, according to a statement from Lebanon's Ministry of Health reported by Reuters. This marks the highest toll in Lebanon since the conflict between Israel and the Iranian-backed Lebanese militant group, Hezbollah, began nearly a year ago.
Reports from the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) indicate that over 300 targets were struck across Lebanon, with the military specifically aiming at sites associated with Hezbollah. IDF spokesperson Daniel Hagari urged residents in southern Lebanon to avoid areas linked to the militant group, particularly those suspected of housing military assets such as weapon storage facilities. In a video message shared on social media platform X, Hagari stated, "We advise civilians in Lebanese cities located in or near buildings and areas that have military purposes for Hezbollah...to immediately relocate for their own safety."
Hagari further emphasized that the IDF would conduct extensive and precise strikes against alleged terror targets embedded throughout Lebanon. When asked by reporters about the possibility of a ground invasion, he refrained from ruling it out, affirming, "We will do whatever is necessary," while confirming that current operations are focused on aerial assaults.
The Israeli government has asserted that these latest strikes are a response to perceived threats from Lebanon. Defense Minister Yoav Gallant declared that operations against Hezbollah will persist until residents of northern Israel can safely return home. This uptick in military activity follows a period of escalated conflict ignited by the Hamas attack on Israel in October of last year, coupled with the ongoing war in Gaza. During this time, Hezbollah has fired rockets into northern Israel, prompting retaliatory attacks from Israel against strategic locations in Lebanon.
The latest air campaigns signal a significant escalation in hostilities. Following recent incidents where personal beacons and walkie-talkies belonging to Hezbollah members exploded, resulting in at least 40 deaths and numerous injuries, tensions have heightened. While Hezbollah has accused Israel of orchestrating these explosions, Israeli President Isaac Herzog has denied any involvement, stating that Israel did not place explosives in the affected electronic equipment.
In addition to the airstrikes in southern Lebanon, reports indicate that the IDF has also targeted the Bekaa region in eastern Lebanon as part of its military operations on Monday. The continuous cycle of violence and retaliatory strikes illustrates the deepening conflict, leaving civilians in both Lebanon and northern Israel caught in a dangerous crossfire.
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