Levant Crisis: Civilian Casualties Rise Following Israeli Airstrikes
In an alarming escalation of violence, an Israeli airstrike near Rafik Hariri hospital in southern Beirut resulted in the destruction of residential buildings, claiming the lives of at least 18 individuals, including four children. Survivors describe scenes of utter devastation as families were caught off guard while sleeping.
Mohammed Sukayneh, a resident affected by the attack, navigated through the debris, recovering only a few belongings from his home of 45 years. “We didn’t recognize what was happening,” he recalled, as chaos unfolded around him. “After the strike, we heard a series of deafening booms, and everything collapsed upon us.”
The airstrike struck a densely populated civilian area, alarming local inhabitants who believed they were safe so close to a major medical facility. Sukayneh was left with a grazed arm, while his 20-year-old nephew is now in intensive care with severe injuries.
Witnesses reported that six residential buildings were reduced to rubble in the attack, leaving many in the community lamenting the loss of life and property. “There are no Hezbollah here, we are all civilians,” lamented a local woman, encapsulating the widespread fears and frustrations of residents.
In response to the attack, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) claimed they targeted a "Hezbollah terrorist objective" in the vicinity, although they did not specify the nature of the target and stressed that the hospital itself was not hit. However, the hospital director confirmed that shrapnel did strike the facility, yet it remains operational.
The situation escalated further as nearby Al Sahel private hospital was evacuated due to fears of potential bombings. Hospital management vehemently denied Israeli allegations linking their facility to Hezbollah, insisting that it operates independently as a teaching institution. “It’s shocking to suggest our hospital is affiliated with any group,” stated a hospital representative, emphasizing their commitment to civilian care.
Amidst the crisis, the IDF continues to assert its military actions are aimed at stopping perceived threats. However, as the conflict intensifies and airstrikes continue, fears among local populations grow, leading to urgent calls for international attention and humanitarian support in the region.
With panic permeating homes and hospitals alike, many are left to wonder about the repercussions of such unilateral military actions on innocent lives. As the dust settles on the destruction, the urgency for peace and stability in the region has never been clearer.
