Location: Beirut, Lebanon & Gaza Strip, Palestine
Airstrikes in Beirut
On Saturday, a series of powerful Israeli airstrikes resulted in at least 15 deaths in central Beirut, with additional casualties in villages northeast of the Lebanese capital. In the Baalbek district, eight people, including four children, were killed in Chimstar village, while five others died in Bodai village.
In Beirut, an eight-story building was struck with bunker-penetrating missiles, designed to target underground structures. Lebanese officials confirmed that the building did not house any Hezbollah leaders at the time of the attack. The strikes shook the Lebanese capital around 4 a.m., leaving a large crater and causing widespread damage, especially in an area known for its antique shops.
Casualties in Lebanon
The Lebanese government has accused Israel of indiscriminate bombing, which it says is causing civilian casualties. Israeli forces have not commented on the specific targets of the airstrikes but continue to argue that they take extensive measures to avoid civilian deaths and blame Hezbollah for using human shields.
Death Toll in Gaza
Meanwhile, Israeli airstrikes in Gaza have killed at least 120 Palestinians in the past 48 hours. Among the victims were seven members of a single family, who died when their house was hit in Gaza City’s Zeitoun suburb. Other casualties were reported in central and southern Gaza.
Israeli forces have intensified their military offensive, particularly targeting the northern parts of Gaza. They have also launched a bombing campaign that hit Kamal Adwan Hospital, a medical facility on the northern edge of Gaza, injuring staff and damaging equipment.
Increased Tensions and Accusations
A spokesperson for Hamas claimed that a female Israeli prisoner held by the group had been killed in the northern part of Gaza, where Israeli forces were continuing their attacks. The spokesperson warned that another Israeli female prisoner’s life was in imminent danger. The Israeli military is investigating these claims.
Growing Humanitarian Crisis
The ongoing bombardment has resulted in significant displacement and suffering. More than 44,000 Palestinians have been killed in the 13 months of attacks, and nearly the entire population of Gaza has been displaced. Authorities in Gaza fear that Israel’s goal may be to create a permanent buffer zone by depopulating large sections of the region—a claim that Israel denies.
