12 medical staff killed in Israeli airstrike in Lebanon

At least 12 medical personnel were killed in Israeli airstrikes on health facilities in southern Lebanon, according to the Lebanese health authorities.

Officials said the strikes targeted a clinic in Bourj Kalawiya, killing 10 staff, including doctors, paramedics, and nurses.

In a separate attack in Sawaneh, two paramedics affiliated with Hezbollah and their allied Amal Movement were also killed, according to local sources.

Israeli air raids continued across southern Lebanon on Friday. The Lebanese Ministry of Health reported that at least eight people were killed in Miyeh wa Miyeh village near the port city of Sidon.

In retaliation, Hezbollah carried out operations against Israeli forces, describing the attack as part of their annual Quds Day military observance, held on the last Friday of Ramadan to show solidarity with Palestine.

Tensions escalated further after a recent US-Israel strike killed Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, prompting Hezbollah to intensify attacks, drawing Lebanon deeper into the regional conflict.

Israel has warned Lebanon of severe consequences if Hezbollah continues its operations. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that ongoing strikes on Lebanese infrastructure are only the beginning, and that the Lebanese government will pay an escalating price for damage caused by Hezbollah militants.

He added that Lebanon risks losing territory until Hezbollah is disarmed.

Meanwhile, Hezbollah chief Naim Qassem said in a televised address that the group is prepared for a prolonged conflict with Israel. “We are ready for a long struggle. By Allah’s will, the Israelis will be surprised on the battlefield,” he said.

Earlier, Lebanese President Michel Aoun proposed direct talks with Israel but said on Friday that no response has been received yet.

Source: Times Of India