182 killed, hundreds injured in Israel-Hezbollah clashes

New Delhi, Sep 23: At least 182 people were killed and more than 800 injured in Israeli strikes. The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah has escalated.

This has been the deadliest day in the ongoing conflict over the past year. Israel says it is expanding its attacks against Hezbollah, and people in southern Lebanon have been receiving phone messages warning them to leave areas linked to the group, which is supported by Iran.

Lebanon’s Prime Minister has condemned Israel’s actions, calling it a “war of extermination.” In response, Israel’s Defence Minister stated that the strikes would continue until they reach their goal of safely returning displaced Israelis to their homes in the north.

To protect civilians, Lebanon’s government has decided to open schools in certain areas as shelters. Many buildings in cities like Beirut, Tripoli, and southern regions are also being used to house those who have fled the violence.

After an emergency meeting, Lebanon’s Environment Minister announced that schools in areas like Mount Lebanon, Sidon, and Tyre are now available for people seeking shelter, with all government departments working together to help those affected.

There are growing fears of a broader regional conflict, as cross-border attacks have increased. The tension escalated following several explosions targeting Hezbollah members, believed to be carried out by Israel.

In response, Hezbollah has fired several rockets into northern Israel, targeting military bases and warehouses. According to the Israel Défense Forces (IDF), at least 35 rockets were launched from Lebanon, with some hitting open areas near the community of Ami’ad. A man in his 50s was lightly injured by shrapnel in the Lower Galilee region. Israeli air defences intercepted several of these rockets.

The IDF reported that it has targeted over 300 Hezbollah sites, and shared a photo showing military leaders planning further strikes. People in Beirut have also been receiving phone messages warning them to leave areas associated with Hezbollah, as reported by the media.

Israel’s Defence Minister has said that the strikes will continue to intensify until they achieve their goals, including the safe return of thousands of displaced Israelis.

The situation has led to a significant number of people being displaced on both sides. Nearly twice as many people in Lebanon have had to leave their homes compared to those in Israel. Concerns are growing that the situation could escalate into a full-scale regional conflict, especially if Israel decides to launch a ground invasion. For now, the Israeli military is focusing on its aerial campaign, but analysts warn that the situation could quickly deteriorate, pushing the region closer to a larger conflict.