An Israeli airstrike targeting a residential building in Barja, located in the Chouf district of Mount Lebanon, has resulted in the deaths of at least 20 people, with an additional 14 individuals reported injured, according to Lebanon’s Health Ministry.

The Public Health Emergency Operations Center reported the rising casualty figures following the strike, which devastated a building housing displaced families. The airstrike, south of Beirut, caused extensive damage, leaving many residents trapped under the debris. Rescue teams are actively working to locate and recover survivors, with search and recovery operations continuing as night falls.

Emergency response teams are racing against time to clear the rubble and provide aid to the injured. Local hospitals have been mobilized to treat the wounded, while health officials warn that the toll may increase as more people are recovered from the wreckage.

Lebanese authorities have condemned the strike, which targeted a densely populated area amid the escalating regional conflict, and have called for urgent international intervention to protect civilians and end hostilities in civilian zones. (ILKHA)