Israeli airstrikes have caused significant casualties in two Lebanese towns, resulting in the deaths of at least nine individuals, as reported by Lebanon's health ministry. The strikes targeted Barja, a predominantly Sunni town located approximately 20 miles south of Beirut, where four people lost their lives and 14 others sustained injuries. This particular airstrike in Barja is notable due to Israel's focus on predominantly Shia areas, where the militant group Hezbollah holds considerable influence.
In addition to the tragedy in Barja, the town of Maaysra in northern Lebanon also experienced a devastating strike, resulting in the deaths of five individuals and injuries to 14 others. This marks the second time Maaysra has been targeted in recent weeks. Furthermore, the town of Deir Billa in northern Lebanon was struck for the first time, with casualty figures yet to be released by the health ministry.
Since September 16, when Israel intensified its operations against Hezbollah, the death toll in Lebanon has surpassed 1,500, with approximately 8,000 individuals sustaining injuries from the airstrikes. The ongoing conflict continues to take a heavy toll on civilian populations in the region, underscoring the urgent need for diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the situation and prevent further loss of life.
