The Israeli military has launched a series of airstrikes in southern Lebanon, targeting what it describes as Hezbollah infrastructure. The strikes come amid Israeli accusations that the Iranian-backed militant group is attempting to re-arm following a U.S.-backed ceasefire that took effect last year.
The conflict escalated significantly on Tuesday evening when a strike hit the Ain al-Hilweh Palestinian refugee camp near Sidon. According to a statement from the Lebanese health authority, the attack resulted in the deaths of thirteen people and wounded several others.
The Israeli military has put forward a different account of the incident, claiming that the site struck within the camp was a Hamas training compound.
Eyewitnesses within the Ain al-Hilweh camp described a scene of devastation and chaos. One resident, speaking in the immediate aftermath, detailed the destruction, stating, “All the houses were damaged. We were just sitting there and then… dust, glass, and stones fell on us.” The witness described the scene as horrific and emotionally devastating, saying, “One just feels helpless… The people who died, this area, people were sleeping. It was around 10 at night.”
The witness further claimed that the area was struck by three missiles, causing houses to shake and terrifying children and the elderly. The account also alleged that the fatalities included “young athletes” who had no connection to any weapons or militant activity.
The airstrikes mark a serious escalation in the region, challenging the fragile ceasefire that has been in place. The conflicting narratives from official sources and those on the ground highlight the deep tensions and the potential for further violence.