Israel Launches Extensive Strikes Across Southern Lebanon, Kills over 20 Civilians

Israel conducted air and artillery strikes on at least 44 towns in southern Lebanon.

The Lebanese Health Ministry reported at least 19 civilians killed from concentrated strikes in Tyre, Sidon, Bint Jbeil, and Nabatieh districts.

Al Jazeera

Israel also targeted Beirut's southern suburbs and the Beqaa Valley—locations it had previously avoided.

Approaches to southern Lebanon were cut by Israeli strikes on bridges over the Litani River.

The Lebanese Health Ministry's toll rose to more than 20 civilians killed and dozens wounded.

The Israeli army said it had conducted more than 2,500 strikes against Hezbollah targets since March 2.

Al Jazeera

Gaza's silence is notable amid Israel's expanding regional campaign.

Lebanon's Prime Minister Nawaf Salam declared the situation very critical.

European countries called for direct negotiations and respect for Lebanon's sovereignty.

“Israel has conducted air and artillery strikes on 44 towns, villages, and areas in southern Lebanon since dawn yesterday, Thursday, killing 10 people and wounding 9, according to data from the Lebanese Health Ministry and the official news agency, while Hezbollah announced that it carried out dozens of attacks on Israeli targets”

Al-Jazeera Net

They also called for protecting UNIFIL forces after three personnel were killed.

Humanitarian aid efforts faced persistent obstacles due to infrastructure destruction.

The UN Security Council met in emergency session.