Ministry: The number of deaths in Lebanon due to Israeli strikes has risen to 394
As Israeli strikes continue, Lebanese officials report that the death toll has risen to 394, including nine medics, amidst accusations of targeting civilians.
The ongoing conflict in the Middle East has escalated following a retaliatory strike by Hezbollah against Israel, triggered by the assassination of Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Lebanese Health Minister Rakan Nassereddine reported that the death toll in Lebanon has reached 394, including nine paramedics, during a press conference. He condemned the attacks on medical teams and emergency vehicles, emphasizing that the strikes are targeting civilians rather than military objectives.
Minister Nassereddine noted that the frequency of killings has increased in the past 48 hours, asserting that these operations primarily impact civilian infrastructure and personnel, in stark contrast to claims by the Israeli military. The reports reflect a growing humanitarian crisis as casualties continue to mount, with calls for accountability and an end to violence against healthcare providers who are vital in emergency situations.
Additionally, this report follows an earlier announcement by the minister, who had indicated a death toll of 294 on Saturday. Despite pressures, Israelβs military operations against Hezbollah have not ceased, reflecting the ongoing conflict's complex nature and the increasing toll on civilians caught in the crossfire.