Israel Intensifies Strikes on Beirut, Gaza; Death Toll Rises Sharply
In a significant escalation of the ongoing conflict, Israeli forces launched extensive airstrikes on Lebanon and Gaza, resulting in hundreds of casualties within 48 hours. The attacks come amid a deepening humanitarian crisis in the region.
Devastation in Beirut and Southern Lebanon
Lebanon’s Civil Defence has confirmed that 11 people were killed and dozens injured in an Israeli airstrike targeting the densely populated Basta neighborhood in central Beirut. The attacks extended to Hadath and Choueifat in Beirut’s southern suburbs, areas historically associated with Hezbollah presence.
Elsewhere in Lebanon, two fishermen lost their lives in an Israeli drone strike near the beach of Tyre city, further inflaming tensions along the Israel-Lebanon border.
Since the beginning of Israel’s offensive following Hamas-led attacks on October 7, Lebanon has faced heavy bombardment. The death toll in Lebanon now stands at 3,645, with 15,355 people injured, highlighting the regional ramifications of the ongoing conflict.
Gaza Faces Escalating Casualties
Meanwhile, Gaza remains the epicenter of devastation. Over the past two days, at least 120 Palestinians have been killed, and 205 others injured in relentless Israeli airstrikes, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry.
The overall death toll in Gaza since October 7 has reached 44,176, with a staggering 104,473 injured. The situation is described by humanitarian agencies as a “catastrophic collapse” of healthcare, with overwhelmed hospitals running out of critical supplies and fuel.
Context of the Conflict
The current crisis was triggered on October 7 when Hamas launched a large-scale attack on southern Israel, killing approximately 1,139 people and taking over 200 hostage. Israel’s subsequent military campaign, which it describes as a necessary operation against Hamas, has drawn widespread condemnation for its scale and impact on civilian populations.
A Growing Humanitarian Emergency
The escalating violence underscores the urgent need for a ceasefire and international mediation. Both Gaza and Lebanon face growing humanitarian challenges, with displacement, food shortages, and healthcare crises exacerbating the toll on civilians.
Conclusion
As the death toll continues to rise, the conflict risks spiraling into a wider regional war. International calls for de-escalation and humanitarian aid access grow louder, but a resolution remains elusive. The situation demands immediate global attention to prevent further loss of life.
Source : Swifteradio.com
