The death toll in Lebanon has risen to 356 as Israel continues its air strikes in response to Hezbollah attacks in solidarity with Gaza. The attacks have prompted responses from regional leaders, with Turkey warning of chaos and Egypt calling for international intervention. The US is sending additional troops to the region as tensions escalate. Israel claims to have destroyed tens of thousands of Hezbollah rockets, and is preparing for further operations. The Israeli military chief has stated that they are targeting 20 years’ worth of combat infrastructure. Amidst fears of escalation, Lebanon is opening schools as shelters for those displaced by the airstrikes. The UN has expressed grave concern for the safety of civilians and warned that attacks on them could amount to war crimes. In response to the violence, US President Biden and Vice President Harris are meeting with the president of the UAE to discuss efforts to de-escalate the situation. Netanyahu has urged Lebanese civilians to leave the area as the military operation expands. Reports indicate that Israeli forces are now targeting Beirut itself. The UN is calling for immediate ceasefire in Gaza and expressing alarm at the situation in Lebanon. The plans to force Palestinian civilians out of Gaza to put Hamas militants under siege in order to secure the release of hostages are under consideration. The UN is warning that further escalation could have devastating consequences for the region.
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Lebanon reports almost 400 casualties from Israeli airstrikes, raising concerns of escalating tensions in the Middle East – Stay updated on the crisis with live coverage from Israel.
