Israel has carried out its largest attack on Lebanon since the war with Hezbollah began, killing at least 254 people and wounding 837, according to Lebanese authorities. The assault, described as a 'surprise strike' by Israel's defence minister, targeted more than 100 Hezbollah military sites across the country, including several buildings in central Beirut.
The strikes came just hours after a ceasefire between Iran and the US was announced by Pakistan's prime minister, which he said included Lebanon. However, Israel's prime minister's office stated that the two-week Middle East ceasefire did not cover Lebanon, and US President Donald Trump later described the Lebanon operation as 'a separate skirmish'.
Hospitals in Lebanon issued urgent calls for blood donations, and the health ministry urged people to clear streets for ambulances. Residents described scenes of panic, with cars crumpled by blasts and buildings reduced to rubble. 'There are people inside!' one man screamed as he ran towards a struck building in the Chiyah neighbourhood.
Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz directly threatened Hezbollah's leader, saying 'Naim Qassem's personal turn will come too'. The Israeli military's Arabic spokesperson warned of deeper strikes in Beirut, vowing to pursue Hezbollah fighters wherever they reposition. The UN human rights chief condemned the 'horrific' carnage, saying it 'defies belief' and places 'enormous pressure on a fragile peace'.
