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Israeli Strikes on Lebanon Strain US-Iran Truce Amid Regional Conflict
Israel conducted intense airstrikes on Lebanon, targeting over 100 sites and causing more than 250 deaths and 1,000 injuries, according to Lebanese authorities. These actions have complicated a fragile truce between the US, Israel, and Iran, brokered by Pakistan. The strikes involve Iran's ally Hezbollah and have prompted Iran to close the Strait of Hormuz.
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Israeli forces carried out airstrikes on Lebanon on Wednesday, hitting over 100 targets in approximately 10 minutes. Lebanese Civil Defence reported more than 250 people killed and over 1,000 injured. Rescue efforts continue to recover bodies from rubble in areas including Beirut.
The strikes targeted positions linked to Hezbollah, an Iranian-backed militant group. Witnesses described the bombardment as creating a 'ring of fire' in Beirut and an 'earthquake' effect across the country. A British conflict surgeon in a Beirut emergency room referred to the events as an 'absolute massacre'.
These actions have impacted a recently announced truce between the US, Israel, and Iran, brokered by Pakistan. According to statements from Pakistan, Iran, and Hezbollah, the truce was intended to include cessation of hostilities in Lebanon. However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that Lebanon was not included.
The broader conflict involves tensions over Iran's nuclear program, ballistic missile capabilities, and control of the Strait of Hormuz, through which 20 percent of global oil and liquefied natural gas passes.
The war has affected at least 13 countries and key transport hubs, including airports in the United Arab Emirates and Qatar. Prior to the truce, former US President Donald Trump stated he would wipe out 'a whole civilisation' in Iran. In response to the Israeli strikes, Iran closed the Strait of Hormuz and stated it would not participate in talks if the offensive on Lebanon continues.
Sources briefed on Israel's position indicated that Netanyahu intends to continue operations against Hezbollah, citing the need to focus on this front amid multiple battlegrounds. Hezbollah's chief's nephew was among those killed in recent strikes. The truce aims to address global disruptions, including energy supply issues and airport closures.
