Israeli air strikes have destroyed two bridges over the Litani River linking southern Lebanon with the rest of the country, the military says. This action follows claims by the Israeli military that the crossings were being used by Hezbollah to move fighters and weapons.
In addition to the bridge strikes, Israeli airstrikes have targeted multiple locations in Beirut, resulting in at least 12 fatalities and 27 injuries, according to Lebanese authorities. This escalation indicates a significant widening of Israeli military operations that have moved beyond southern suburbs into central Beirut.
The Lebanese health ministry reported that 968 individuals, including 111 children, have died since the onset of the conflict on March 2. This growing toll highlights the increasing humanitarian crisis in the region.
Lebanon has been drawn further into the conflict following missile fire from Hezbollah into Israeli territory, prompting Israeli retaliatory airstrikes and the deployment of ground troops into southern Lebanon. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz stated the attacks on infrastructure were a direct response to the use of state facilities by Hezbollah for terrorist activities, reinforcing the strategic importance of the Litani River in the ongoing conflict.
Warnings for civilians to evacuate areas near the targeted crossings have been issued by the Israeli military, deepening an ongoing displacement crisis. Reports indicate that over one million people have been forced to leave their homes, primarily from southern and eastern Lebanon, as the conflict intensifies, particularly in areas of Hezbollah influence.
The situation remains precarious, with continuous bombardment leading to widespread panic and destruction throughout southern Beirut. Eyewitness accounts describe chaotic scenes following strikes, emphasizing the resilience of civilians amidst escalating violence.
