Lebanese health authorities confirmed on Monday a sharp rise in civilian casualties following a wave of Israeli air raids that struck multiple regions across the country, intensifying fears of a broader regional confrontation.

According to a statement issued by the Emergency Operations Center affiliated with the Ministry of Public Health in Lebanon, at least 31 people were killed and 149 civilians wounded in what officials described as “hostile Israeli airstrikes.” The figures were characterized as preliminary, with authorities warning that the death toll may rise as rescue teams continue operations and hospitals complete their assessments.

While a comprehensive geographical breakdown has yet to be released, the raids reportedly targeted several key areas, including the capital Beirut, southern Lebanon, and the Bekaa Valley.

Israeli warplanes struck Beirut’s southern suburbs, including Haret Hreik and Al-Jamous, areas that have historically faced repeated bombardment during previous escalations. Strikes were also reported near Beirut–Rafic Hariri International Airport, raising concerns about civilian infrastructure and aviation safety.

Southern Lebanon endured heavy bombardment, with residential towns hit amid intense artillery shelling. In the Bekaa Valley, Israeli aircraft were reported flying at low altitude over northern and western districts, further escalating tensions and spreading panic among residents.

The escalation comes amid heightened regional strain following the February 28 joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran. Iranian state television subsequently confirmed the martyrdom of Sayyed Ali Khamenei and announced a 40-day national mourning period, developments that have reverberated across the region.

Lebanese officials have also cited months of continued Israeli violations of a previously declared ceasefire agreement, arguing that the latest air offensive reflects a dangerous pattern of sustained aggression.

In response to the air raids, the Islamic Resistance in Lebanon announced that it had launched missile and drone operations targeting an Israeli air defense site south of Haifa. The group described the action as a retaliatory measure aimed at deterring further attacks on Lebanese territory.

As search-and-rescue efforts continue across affected areas, humanitarian concerns are mounting. Hospitals in Beirut and southern Lebanon are reportedly operating under emergency conditions, while civil defense teams work to locate survivors beneath the rubble.

Officials have urged the international community to intervene to halt the violence and prevent further civilian suffering, warning that the current trajectory risks plunging the region into a wider and more devastating conflict. (ILKHA)