Hundreds of people have reportedly been killed and injured following a new wave of Israeli airstrikes across Lebanon, according to Lebanese Health Minister Rakan Nassereddine.
The United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, strongly condemned the large-scale military operation, which reportedly caused heavy civilian casualties, including women and children, as well as widespread destruction of infrastructure.
The strikes were carried out by the Israel Defence Forces (IDF), which said it conducted what it described as its most extensive coordinated assault in Lebanon since the start of its ongoing military operations against Hezbollah.
According to the IDF, more than 100 targets linked to Hezbollah were hit, including command centres, military headquarters, intelligence facilities, and weapons infrastructure across Beirut, the Beqaa Valley, and southern Lebanon.
The Israeli military stated that the operation targeted strategic assets belonging to Hezbollah’s elite units, including the Radwan Force, in what it described as part of efforts to neutralise threats against northern Israel.
Lebanese authorities confirmed that the strikes resulted in mass casualties, although the full extent of deaths and injuries is still being assessed as rescue operations continue in affected areas.
The escalation has intensified fears of a wider regional conflict, with continued military activity despite calls for restraint.
In his reaction, UN chief António Guterres condemned the attacks, describing them as deeply alarming and noting the significant toll on civilians and civilian infrastructure.
He extended condolences to the Lebanese government and people, while urging all parties to immediately halt hostilities and respect international humanitarian law.
Guterres also warned that the ongoing violence risks undermining diplomatic efforts in the region and stressed that there is no military solution to the conflict.
He called for renewed diplomatic engagement and full adherence to relevant United Nations resolutions aimed at restoring peace and stability in the Middle East.
