Israeli Strikes on Beirut and Baalbek Kill Civilians, Including Children; U.S. Opposes Bombing Campaign

Oct 16, 2024, 04:24 AM

In recent days, Israeli forces have intensified airstrikes in southern Lebanon and Beirut, targeting Hezbollah's infrastructure, including underground tunnels and weapons depots. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) uncovered an 800-meter-long underground Hezbollah tunnel used as a command center for the Radwan Force, Hezbollah's elite unit planning operations into Israel. Airstrikes have hit towns such as Qana, Baalbek, Nabatieh, and the southern suburbs of Beirut, including the Dahieh area and Haret Hreik neighborhood. The strikes have also targeted the Bekaa Valley and Baalbek in eastern Lebanon. The mayor of Nabatieh was reportedly killed in an Israeli strike. The airstrikes have resulted in significant civilian casualties, including at least ten people killed and fifteen injured in Qana, according to Lebanese sources. Casualties include children, and other reports indicate civilian deaths and injuries in Baalbek and other areas. The U.S. State Department, through spokesperson Matthew Miller, has raised concerns with Israel over the scope of its bombing campaign in Beirut and the rising civilian toll, stating that the United States opposes the bombing campaign as carried out. Despite international concerns, Israel has continued its airstrikes, stating that it targeted a strategic underground Hezbollah weapons storage facility in the Dahieh area of Beirut. The Israeli Navy has also struck dozens of Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon, dismantling underground infrastructure. Hezbollah has vowed to intensify attacks on Israel while calling for a ceasefire. The situation has raised fears of a wider regional escalation amid the ongoing conflict, with reports indicating that elements of five IDF divisions are operating in Lebanon.