BEIRUT (Web Desk) — Israel carried out its most intense wave of airstrikes across Lebanon since the conflict with Hezbollah escalated last month, killing at least 303 people and injuring 1,100, according to Lebanon’s health ministry. Explosions rocked Beirut and other areas, with smoke rising over the area as Israeli forces targeted more than 100 times linked to Hezbollah in Beirut, the Bekaa Valley, and southern Lebanon.
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Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam declared a national day of mourning, as overwhelmed hospitals struggled to treat the wounded. Civilians were seen transporting victims on motorcycles due to ambulance shortages, while doctors issued urgent appeals for assistance and blood donations.
Despite a two-week ceasefire between the United States and Iran, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated the truce does not apply to Lebanon, a position echoed by US officials. Meanwhile, Hezbollah officials said they had paused attacks believing Lebanon was included, calling the strikes a serious violation.
Tensions remain high as conflicting interpretations of the ceasefire deepen uncertainty, with Iran insisting Lebanon must be included in any broader peace agreement.
