BEIRUT (MNN); Israeli airstrikes have killed at least 2,020 people in Lebanon since the escalation of fighting with Hezbollah last month, according to Lebanese health authorities.
The toll includes 248 women, 165 children, and 85 medical and emergency workers, with more than 6,400 people reported injured since Lebanon was drawn into the broader Middle East conflict on March 2.
Fresh Israeli strikes were reported in southern Lebanon, including an attack in the town of Tefahta that killed at least five people. Additional air raids targeted areas including Seddiqine, Tibnin, and Dibbine, while a paramedic was injured when responding to an earlier strike. Lebanese media also reported continued drone activity over affected areas.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated that Israel would continue its military campaign against Iran and allied groups, while also criticising Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, accusing him of supporting Iran and committing abuses against Kurdish populations.
Netanyahu also signalled conditional openness to peace with Lebanon, stating that any agreement must ensure the disarmament of Hezbollah and result in a lasting settlement “for generations.” He added that Lebanon had approached Israel multiple times in recent weeks to initiate direct talks.
Meanwhile, Lebanon’s Prime Minister Nawaf Salam has postponed his planned visit to the United States and the United Nations, citing the deteriorating situation at home and the need to oversee government efforts from Beirut.
