Israeli Strikes Target Healthcare Center in Southern Lebanon, Killing 12 Medical Workers
In a devastating escalation of violence, an Israeli strike in southern Lebanon on Saturday resulted in the deaths of 12 medical workers at a healthcare center, according to Lebanese health authorities. The attack targeted a clinic in the town of Burj Qalawiya, killing doctors, paramedics, and nurses who were providing essential services at the facility. This incident marks one of the deadliest attacks on medical personnel in the ongoing conflict.
Additional Strikes Claim Lives of Paramedics and Civilians
Separately, another strike in the town of Sawaneh killed two paramedics affiliated with Hezbollah and its ally Amal, further highlighting the perilous conditions for healthcare workers in the region. Meanwhile, Israeli strikes continued in southern Lebanon on Friday, with the Lebanese health ministry reporting that an attack in the village of Miyeh w Miyeh, near the port city of Sidon, killed eight people, adding to the civilian toll.
Hezbollah Launches Quds Day Operations in Response
In retaliation, Hezbollah launched attacks against Israeli forces on Friday as part of what it described as a Quds Day operation. Quds Day is an annual demonstration in Iran, held on the last Friday of the holy month of Ramadan, to show support for the Palestinian cause. Hezbollah chief Naim Qassem stated in a televised address that the group is prepared for a prolonged conflict with Israel, warning, "We have prepared ourselves for a long confrontation, and God willing, they (Israelis) will be surprised on the battlefield."
Lebanon Drawn Deeper into Regional Conflict
Lebanon has been increasingly drawn into the regional conflict following Hezbollah's attacks on Israel, which came in response to strikes by the United States and Israel on Iran that killed its supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, last week. This has intensified tensions, with Israel issuing stern warnings to Lebanon.
Israeli Warnings and Lebanese Diplomatic Efforts
Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz emphasized that the strikes on infrastructure were only the beginning, stating, "This is just the beginning and the Lebanese government and the state of Lebanon will pay an increasing price in damage to Lebanese national infrastructure used by Hezbollah terrorists." In contrast, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun earlier this week offered to negotiate directly with Israel, but on Friday, he noted that he had not received any response, underscoring the diplomatic stalemate.
Key Points of the Escalating Crisis
- Israeli strike kills 12 medical workers at a healthcare center in Burj Qalawiya, southern Lebanon.
- Additional strikes in Sawaneh and Miyeh w Miyeh result in more casualties, including paramedics and civilians.
- Hezbollah responds with Quds Day operations, signaling readiness for a prolonged conflict.
- Israel warns Lebanon of increasing consequences if Hezbollah continues its actions.
- Lebanese President Aoun's offer for direct negotiations with Israel remains unanswered.
The situation remains volatile, with both sides showing no signs of backing down, raising concerns about further escalation and humanitarian impact in the region.
