Şevval Tufan
Israeli air strikes targeting central Beirut on Saturday killed at least 20 people and wounded 66, according to the Lebanese Ministry of Health. It was the fourth attack in a week in the centre of the city, intensifying the conflict in Lebanon, which has already killed more than 3,500 people and displaced some 1.2 million.
Source: APNews
The latest attacks destroyed an eight-storey residential building in the predominantly Shia Muslim neighbourhood of Basta, which has become a refuge for those displaced from Hezbollah areas. The attack took place without prior warning and caused significant civilian casualties.
Diplomatic efforts are underway to secure a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah. US envoy Amos Hochstein actively participated in the negotiations, proposing a two-month cessation of hostilities, the withdrawal of Israeli forces and the disarmament of Hezbollah along the southern border. However, disagreements over monitoring mechanisms and terms prevented progress.
The fighting has also affected Israel, with bombardments in the northern areas resulting in the deaths of approximately 90 soldiers and nearly 50 civilians. Continued violence raised international concern and led to calls for an immediate ceasefire to prevent further humanitarian crises.
Source: APNews
