Israeli Air Strikes Kill 492 in Lebanon, Marking Deadliest Conflict

News Today: Israeli air strikes in Lebanon kill 492 people, Hezbollah conflict escalates

At least 492 people have been killed in intense Israeli air strikes targeting Hezbollah in Lebanon, marking the deadliest day of conflict in almost two decades, according to Lebanon’s health ministry. Among the dead are 35 children and 58 women, while 1,645 others have been wounded. The strikes have displaced thousands of families as Israel launched operations to destroy Hezbollah’s infrastructure built since the 2006 war.

Hezbollah responded with more than 200 rockets targeting northern Israel, injuring two people. As the situation escalates, UN Secretary General António Guterres expressed concern about Lebanon becoming “another Gaza,” while EU foreign affairs chief Josep Borrell warned of a potential “full-fledged war.” President Joe Biden also confirmed the US is “working to de-escalate” the crisis, as the Pentagon announced the deployment of a small number of additional troops to the Middle East.

Amid rising tensions, the Israeli military confirmed it hit 1,300 Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon and the Bekaa Valley, including missile storage facilities and drone sites. Hezbollah, however, stated that they would continue to support Hamas in Gaza and not cease operations without a ceasefire. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu urged Lebanese civilians to distance themselves from Hezbollah-controlled areas.

The conflict has led to immense fear among Lebanese civilians, with many fleeing their homes, roads jammed with vehicles as families attempt to escape the bombardment. A ceasefire seems distant as Hezbollah vows to retaliate, further intensifying cross-border skirmishes.