Lebanon’s Ministry of Health said at least 60 people were killed on Monday (28/10) as a result of Israeli attacks in several areas in the East Bekaa Valley, mostly in the Baalbek region.
The Health Ministry said the death toll included 12 areas in the Bekaa Valley controlled by the Hezbollah militant group.
“At least two children were among the dead,” he said.
At least 58 other people were injured, with the Health Ministry noting that the toll was still preliminary as rescue efforts were still ongoing.
Of the 60 deaths, at least 16 deaths were recorded in Al-Alaq, west of the city of Baalbek, according to the health ministry.
Monday’s deaths raised the overall death toll to more than 1,700 people killed in Lebanon since the Israel-Hezbollah war erupted late last month.
The actual number may be higher due to gaps in the data.
Baalbek Governor Bachir Khodr condemned the most violent attack in the region since the start of the conflict.
Baalbek is a poor region in the Bekaa Valley that borders Syria.
The massive attack there on Monday (28/10) was not preceded by an evacuation warning.
“They came as Israel pounded southern Lebanon, including the coastal city of Tyre,” the official National News Agency said.
The Israel-Hezbollah war erupted on September 23 after almost a year of cross-border firefights between the two warring parties.
The war has displaced at least 1.3 million people, more than 800 thousand of whom are in Lebanon according to the UN migration agency, IOM.
According to Lebanese authorities, more than half a million people have crossed into Syria, the vast majority of them Syrians. (Al Arabiya/Fer/P-3)
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**Interview with Dr. Samir Al-Najjar, Lebanese Health Analyst**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Al-Najjar. The recent Israeli attacks in the Bekaa Valley have tragically claimed the lives of at least 60 individuals, including children. Can you provide some context on what led to this escalation in violence?
**Dr. Al-Najjar:** Thank you for having me. The situation has been escalating for weeks, primarily due to ongoing tensions between Israel and Hezbollah. This latest incident appears to be part of a broader conflict, where targeted attacks are aimed at militant infrastructure, but unfortunately, they impact civilians as well.
**Editor:** The death toll is quite alarming, especially with two children reported among those killed. How is the local health infrastructure managing this crisis?
**Dr. Al-Najjar:** The health infrastructure in the Bekaa Valley is already strained, and such a significant influx of casualties will exacerbate existing challenges. Hospitals are likely overwhelmed, and there are urgent calls for international aid to support medical efforts. Our medical teams are doing their best, but the situation is dire.
**Editor:** The Lebanese Health Ministry mentioned that 12 areas controlled by Hezbollah were affected. How does this control influence the humanitarian situation on the ground?
**Dr. Al-Najjar:** Hezbollah’s presence complicates the humanitarian response. Many NGOs are hesitant to operate in these areas due to security concerns, which limits the reach of vital aid. Civilians are often caught in the crossfire, and their access to medical care and basic necessities can be severely impacted.
**Editor:** In light of these events, how do you foresee the international community responding?
**Dr. Al-Najjar:** I anticipate that there will be calls for a ceasefire and increased humanitarian assistance. However, geopolitical interests often complicate swift and effective responses. The international community must prioritize the protection of civilians and ensure that humanitarian aid can reach those in need without obstruction.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Al-Najjar, for your insights on this tragic situation. We hope for a resolution that prioritizes peace and the well-being of all affected communities.
**Dr. Al-Najjar:** Thank you for covering this important issue. It is crucial that we continue to raise awareness and advocate for the safety of civilians in conflict zones.
