Israel has conducted ground operations and airstrikes in a heavily impacted city in southern Gaza, resulting in the deaths of at least 51 individuals, including women and children, according to Palestinian medical officials. The military actions come amidst ongoing strikes on what Israel claims to be militant targets across Gaza, following an attack by Hamas last year that sparked conflict in the region. Israeli ground troops have also engaged in incursions into Lebanon against Hezbollah, with reports of clashes in the border town of Odaisseh.
Israeli media has reported infantry and tank units operating in southern Lebanon after the deployment of additional troops and artillery to the border. The military has advised residents in around 50 villages and towns to evacuate, leading to hundreds of thousands fleeing their homes as tensions escalate.
The ground operations in Lebanon have raised concerns of a broader conflict in the Middle East involving Iran and the United States. Hezbollah and Hamas, both supported by Tehran, have been key players in the ongoing hostilities.
In response to the escalating situation, the United Nations Secretary-General was declared persona non grata by Israel for failing to condemn an Iranian attack. The Health Ministry in Gaza reported casualties from the recent operation, with 51 people killed and 82 wounded in Khan Younis, including women and children.
Iran retaliated by launching missiles into Israel, prompting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to vow retaliation. The U.S. President expressed full support for Israel and discussed potential responses to the situation. The U.N. Security Council scheduled an emergency meeting to address the escalating tensions in the region.
Israel continues to conduct limited ground incursions into southern Lebanon, with airstrikes and artillery exchanges ongoing. The border region has seen significant displacement and casualties, with both sides engaging in hostilities.
Israeli strikes have resulted in over 1,000 deaths in Lebanon over the past two weeks, with a significant number of casualties being women and children. The situation remains fluid, with concerns of further escalation and the need for diplomatic intervention to achieve a ceasefire.
