Lebanese Health Minister, Firas Al-Abiad, announced on Saturday that the death toll from the Israeli airstrike on the southern suburbs of Beirut has risen to 31.
Breakdown of Casualties
During a press conference, Al-Abiad revealed that among the 31 casualties were 3 children, 7 women, and 3 Syrians. Additionally, 68 people were injured in the attack. He emphasized that the strike caused an entire building to collapse, most of the victims being civilians.
Rescue Efforts
Rescue and civil defense teams worked through the night to recover the bodies and help the wounded. The total death toll from the recent attacks on South Beirut, along with earlier strikes targeting pagers and walkie-talkies, has now reached 70. Over 770 injured individuals are still receiving treatment, according to the minister.
Minister’s Condemnation and Preparedness
Al-Abiad condemned the latest Israeli attacks, labeling them as “war crimes.” He assured that Lebanon has increased its medical supply reserves, ensuring enough for the next four months. The country will also seek additional supplies and collaborate with friendly nations to boost readiness.
International Medical Aid
The health minister also mentioned that Egyptian Health Minister Khaled Abdel Ghaffar reached out, offering medical aid and assistance with medical evacuations.
Israeli Strikes on Hezbollah Leaders
On Friday, Israel killed senior Hezbollah commanders and other members of the Lebanese group in an airstrike on Beirut. Israel has vowed to continue its military campaign to secure the area along the Lebanese border.
The Israeli army confirmed that the airstrike killed Ibrahim Aqil, a prominent leader in Hezbollah’s elite Radwan Unit. Hezbollah later confirmed Aqil’s death in a statement, referring to him as “one of its senior commanders,” without providing further details on how he died.
