Israeli attacks on Lebanon result in multiple civilian casualties reported

At least 11 people have been killed in southern Lebanon during Israeli attacks on Friday, including several healthcare workers in the Tyre district. The incidents mark the latest escalation in violence between Israel and the Lebanese-based armed group Hezbollah.

Since the ceasefire came into effect in mid-April, more than 400 people have been killed by Israeli fire. The conflict has resulted in significant loss of life, with at least 2,896 people killed, over 8,824 injured, and more than 1.6 million displaced.

The attacks on Friday targeted healthcare facilities and medical teams, with six confirmed dead in the municipality of Deir Qanoun en-Nahr, including two paramedics and a child. In another incident, four paramedics were killed in the town of Hannaouiyah, while an attack in Nabatieh resulted in one man’s death.

The Israeli military has repeatedly targeted health facilities and medical teams, accusing Hezbollah of using them to conceal weapons and fighters. The Lebanese government disputes this claim, stating that since the latest escalation between Israel and Hezbollah in early March, 116 healthcare workers have been killed, 16 hospitals damaged, and 147 ambulances attacked.

The US-mediated ceasefire has been extended by 45 days, but violence continues, with Hezbollah trading attacks with Israel. The Lebanese government had pledged to disarm Hezbollah in August, but the task remains challenging due to the group’s significant influence and strong armed wing.

On Thursday, the US imposed sanctions on nine individuals with links to Hezbollah, including Iran’s ambassador to Lebanon. The sanctions include an army officer accused of sharing information with the group.

Source: Al Jazeera