Israeli air and artillery strikes across Lebanon have killed over 200 people and injured more than 1,000, authorities reported, in an escalation that threatens the recently announced U.S.-Iran ceasefire. The attacks, concentrated in Beirut and southern towns including Kafra, Jmaijmeh, Safad al-Battikh, Majdal Selem, and Deir Antar, targeted sites Israel described as Hezbollah infrastructure. Lebanon’s National News Agency confirmed that an Israeli strike on al-Abbassieh alone killed at least seven people, with the toll expected to rise.
The Lebanese army reported four soldiers among the casualties, while the country’s Health Ministry stated that attacks since March 2 have claimed at least 1,739 lives and wounded 5,873. Prime Minister Nawaf Salam declared a national day of mourning, closing public offices and lowering flags.
Hezbollah claimed responsibility for retaliatory strikes, asserting it launched four attacks against Israeli positions in northern Israel and southern Lebanon in response to repeated violations of the ceasefire. Israeli officials maintain Lebanon falls outside the scope of the U.S.-Iran agreement, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasizing Israel will strike Hezbollah “wherever necessary.”
Iranian leaders, including President Masoud Pezeshkian and Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, warned that the assaults on Lebanon breach the ceasefire, undermining diplomatic efforts and prompting potential consequences. Pakistan, acting as mediator of the ceasefire, and other countries including France, Spain, and Qatar, called for adherence to the agreement and protection of civilians.
The unfolding violence has intensified international scrutiny over the fragile peace deal, highlighting the complex dynamics of regional security, civilian safety, and the enforcement of the U.S.-Iran truce.
