Israeli strikes leave hundreds dead in Lebanon despite ceasefire

The death toll has risen to 254, with at least 1,165 people injured in strikes across the country.

BEIRUT: Israel Defence Forces carried out one of its most intense air campaigns on Lebanon despite the ongoing ceasefire with Iran, leaving hundreds dead and injured.

According to Lebanon’s Civil Defence, the death toll has risen to 254, with at least 1,165 people injured in strikes across the country.

In the capital Beirut alone, 92 people were killed and 742 wounded, while heavy casualties were also reported in southern suburbs, Baalbek, Hermel, Nabatieh, Aley, Sidon, and Tyre.

The Ministry of Public Health Lebanon said that Wednesday’s attacks alone resulted in 112 deaths and more than 800 injuries, as hospitals declared emergencies and appealed for blood donations.

Eyewitnesses reported continuous explosions across Beirut, with plumes of smoke rising from multiple areas of the city.

The Israel Defence Forces said it targeted over 100 sites linked to Hezbollah, including command centers and military installations in Beirut, the Bekaa Valley, and southern Lebanon, describing it as one of its largest coordinated operations.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the ceasefire with Iran does not apply to Lebanon, while Defense Minister Israel Katz claimed the strikes dealt a major blow to Hezbollah.

Authorities warned that rescue operations are ongoing and the death toll may rise further.