An Israeli airstrike in Lebanon has resulted in the tragic deaths of 23 people, as reported by Lebanese officials. The strike, which occurred near the ancient city of Baalbek in Lebanon's northeastern Bekaa Valley, targeted a building housing Syrian workers and their families. The bodies of 23 Syrian citizens were recovered from under the rubble, with four Syrians and four Lebanese individuals sustaining injuries.
Most of the casualties were women and children, and rescue efforts lasted through the night and into the following morning. The Lebanese Red Cross, Hezbollah's paramedic service, and the Lebanese Civil Defense were involved in the recovery operations.
Lebanon, with a significant refugee population, hosts nearly 780,000 registered Syrian refugees along with many unregistered individuals. Israel has been conducting an intensified air campaign against the militant Hezbollah group, targeting rocket launchers and military infrastructure.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has not yet responded to a proposed cease-fire, while Israel's foreign minister has affirmed the country's commitment to continue fighting until victory is achieved. Hezbollah, on the other hand, has linked its cessation of strikes to a Gaza cease-fire, which remains elusive despite ongoing negotiations.
The recent escalation of violence has resulted in over 630 deaths in Lebanon, with a significant number of women and children among the casualties. Israel has reported several injuries from shrapnel, and the military has conducted numerous strikes across southern and eastern Lebanon.
Hezbollah's rocket attacks into Israel, following an earlier conflict sparked by Hamas, have led to widespread displacement and casualties on both sides of the border. Israel has mobilized troops in preparation for a potential ground operation to ensure the safety of its citizens.
The situation remains tense, with both sides showing determination to continue their military actions. The international community has called for an immediate cease-fire to allow for diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the conflict and prevent further loss of life.
