Lebanon National Mourning has been declared after a series of Israeli airstrikes killed at least 254 people and injured more than 1,165 in a single day, according to Lebanese officials.
The strikes rank among the most severe attacks in recent months and have intensified pressure on the Lebanese government. Prime Minister Nawaf Salam said authorities are mobilising all political and diplomatic efforts to halt the ongoing violence.
Health Minister Rakan Nassereddine called for urgent international support. He said hospitals are overwhelmed and struggling to manage the growing number of civilian casualties.
The escalation comes despite an existing ceasefire agreement between the United States and Iran. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Lebanon was not part of the deal and confirmed that military operations would continue.
US Vice President JD Vance backed that position, saying the United States did not commit to stopping Israeli actions in Lebanon.
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi responded by urging Washington to make a clear choice between pushing for a ceasefire or allowing further escalation through Israel. He warned that both paths cannot continue at the same time.
