At least 72 people were killed and at least 223 wounded in Israeli attacks on Wednesday in Lebanon, according to a Reuters compilation of Lebanese health ministry statements.
Israel has expanded the zones it has been striking since Tuesday night, with attacks for the first time on the beach resort town of Jiyyeh just south of Beirut and Maaysrah.
Strikes in several areas of Lebanon, including Bint Jbeil, Tebnin, Ain Qana, Joun in the Chouf district, and Maaysrah in Keserwan, have heightened regional tensions. According to Lebanon’s foreign minister, the ongoing conflict may have displaced as many as half a million people. In Beirut, thousands of displaced individuals, mostly from southern Lebanon, are seeking refuge in schools and other temporary shelters.
In Alma Chaab, a Christian town near the Israeli border, the Lebanese Army evacuated over 60 residents after overnight strikes. Milad Eid, a local resident, reported that at least two houses were destroyed, though fortunately, there were no casualties.
On the Israeli side, Hezbollah launched heavy barrages into the Galilee region. In Safed, an assisted living facility was hit, but no injuries were reported. Israel also intercepted a missile over Tel Aviv, preventing further damage.
In response to the conflict, Hezbollah claims to have targeted a Mossad base near Tel Aviv. Meanwhile, reports suggest that Iran is mediating negotiations to supply Yemen’s Houthis with advanced Russian missiles.
As the situation intensifies, Israel’s potential ground offensive in Lebanon remains a significant concern for regional stability.
