Israel escalated its conflict with Hezbollah in Lebanon, targeting new locations and ordering evacuations of southern Lebanese villages. At least 15 people were killed and 37 wounded in Israeli strikes, while Hezbollah fired 320 projectiles into Israel. Israel claimed the evacuations were necessary due to Hezbollah’s increased activities and accused the group of concealing weapons among civilians, which Hezbollah denied.
The United States expressed deep concern about Israeli attacks on U.N. peacekeeping positions in Lebanon, emphasizing the need to pivot to a diplomatic solution. Israeli airstrikes damaged hospitals in Baalbek and the Bekaa Valley, disrupting access to medical care. The Israel military targeted over 200 sites in Lebanon, killing around 50 Hezbollah fighters.
UNIFIL peacekeepers have been targeted in recent days, with one member being wounded by gunfire. Hezbollah claimed to have attacked Tel Aviv with drones, while Israel intercepted two drones from Lebanon. The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah intensified in recent weeks, causing approximately 1.2 million people to be displaced from their homes.
The death toll has reached 2,255 since the conflict began, and more Lebanese have been displaced than during the 2006 war between Israel and Hezbollah. The United Nations called for the safety of peacekeepers and urged all parties to ensure their protection. The situation remains tense, with both sides engaging in military actions while facing international condemnation for targeting civilians and peacekeepers.
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