Israeli Airstrikes in Southern Lebanon Claim at Least 21 Lives
Lebanon’s health ministry reported that Israeli strikes on Sunday have resulted in the deaths of at least 21 individuals across southern Lebanon. The most significant casualties occurred in Haret Saida, near the port city of Sidon, where nine people were killed and 38 others wounded in a targeted attack.
In the southern village of Ain Baal, at least seven were killed, including a nurse and three rescue workers. Another five died in the Burj al-Shemali area, where a drone strike targeted a site near a school run by the UN agency for Palestinian refugees. Fortunately, the school itself was not directly hit, according to an UNRWA spokesperson, and there were no reported casualties from the institution.
Witnesses reported extensive destruction in Haret Saida, where the upper floor of a three-story building was completely demolished. Nearby buildings also sustained damage, and the Lebanese army has since cordoned off the area, which has seen an influx of people fleeing other regions of southern Lebanon amid the ongoing conflict.
Critics have pointed out that there was no prior warning for evacuation before the airstrike took place. The recent surge in violence comes as Israel intensifies its military operations against Hezbollah, which began in late September. According to an AFP tally based on health ministry figures, the conflict has resulted in the deaths of at least 1,620 individuals since September 23.
The situation remains fluid as emergency responders continue to search for victims and assist those affected by the escalating violence in the region.
