Israeli airstrikes on Lebanon killed at least 40 around the city of Baalbek in the Bekaa Valley according to Lebanese health ministry. Another 53 were reported wounded. The escalation is ongoing, as Israel has done bombardment in southern and eastern regions of Lebanon and ground incursions into border villages. The war between Israel and Hezbollah has lasted over a year but has intensified since September. Israeli forces attacked Hezbollah strongholds in Beirut's southern suburbs on Wednesday. At least four more strikes were reported on Thursday. Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has appointed Israel Katz as defense minister recently.
Surge in Civilian Casualties
Israeli attacks across Gaza have led to the deaths of at least 27 people since early morning. In northern Gaza 19 fatalities were recorded, including incidents where four individuals lost their lives in Jabalia an-Nazla, six near western Jabalia and five in Beit Lahiya. Israeli ground forces have maintained their siege on northern Gaza for now 34 consecutive days. Six people died in artillery shelling near the Abu Sharkh roundabout which is located west of the Jabalia refugee camp. According to Palestinian media, Jabalia’s al-Awda Hospital received the bodies of at least five people from the Tall az-Zaatar region today.
Political Developments
Nabih Berri, a Hezbollah ally and diplomatic figure, met with U.S. and Saudi ambassadors in Lebanon on Wednesday to discuss recent political developments, though his office provided no further details. Lebanon’s acting prime minister also extended his congratulations to the U.S. president-elect. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu celebrated Trump’s election win, while senior Hamas official Sami Abu Zuhri remarked that Trump would now face the test of his earlier statements about ending the Gaza conflict swiftly as president.
Inputs by Agencies
Image Source: Multiple Agencies
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