Israeli airstrikes on Lebanon on Wednesday resulted in the deaths of at least 30 people in the Baalbek region, according to local officials. The attacks, which also targeted Hezbollah strongholds in southern Beirut, come amid escalating violence between Israel and Hezbollah that has intensified since late September.
Strikes Intensify Across Lebanon
At least 20 Israeli strikes in the Baalbek-Hermel governorate killed 30 people and injured 35, said Bachir Khodr, the regional governor. Further strikes hit the southern suburbs of Beirut, though no immediate casualties were reported from the area. The strikes followed an Israeli military order to evacuate residents from certain locations.
In a statement, Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem emphasized the group’s stance, suggesting that while political negotiations might not end the hostilities, there could be an avenue for indirect negotiations if Israel ceased its attacks.
Rising Tensions Amidst Efforts for Diplomacy
As the violence continues to ravage Lebanon, the international community’s diplomatic efforts have stalled. The US had previously proposed a 60-day ceasefire, but discussions faltered ahead of the US election, where former President Donald Trump was re-elected. Israel’s Prime Minister Netanyahu appointed a new defense minister, Israel Katz, who vowed to “defeat” Hezbollah.
Impact on Lebanon and Ongoing Diplomatic Struggles
Lebanese rescue teams continued to search for survivors from an Israeli airstrike on the town of Barja, where 20 people were killed on Tuesday. In response, Hezbollah launched missiles at an Israeli military base near Tel Aviv, with some projectiles intercepted by Israeli defense systems.
As the violence shows no signs of abating, Lebanese political leaders remain hopeful for diplomatic intervention, though the political landscape remains deeply influenced by shifting global alliances and the ongoing regional conflicts.
