Israeli airstrikes targeting vehicles in southern Lebanon killed at least 12 people, including two children, according to Lebanon's health ministry. Seven cars came under fire in separate attacks south of Beirut during the strikes.
The incidents occurred in an area where Hezbollah maintains significant operational presence. Israeli military operations in southern Lebanon have intensified over recent months as cross-border tensions with Hezbollah escalate. The strikes reflect ongoing friction between Israel and the Iran-backed militant group, which has launched rockets into northern Israel.
Civilian casualties in vehicle strikes remain a contentious issue. International observers have documented similar incidents in the region, raising questions about target verification and civilian protection protocols. Lebanon's government has condemned the attacks and called for international intervention to halt what it characterizes as unlawful strikes on civilian infrastructure.
The deaths add to the mounting toll from months of escalating violence between Israeli forces and Hezbollah. Both sides have reported casualties from aerial bombardment and rocket fire. The situation threatens to destabilize the broader region if military operations continue unchecked.
No immediate statement from the Israeli military addressed the specific incident or casualty figures. Israeli officials have previously maintained that operations target militant infrastructure and personnel, distinguishing such strikes from attacks on civilians.
The killings underscore the civilian cost of the deepening conflict. Humanitarian organizations operating in Lebanon have documented displacement and injuries from the fighting. International diplomatic efforts to broker a ceasefire have made limited progress.