In the midst of escalating violence in south Lebanon, civilians are facing catastrophic levels of bombardment as Israel targets Hezbollah and civilians alike. More than 700 people have been killed in the bombings, prompting fears of a full-scale war similar to the devastation witnessed in Gaza. The United States and France are calling for a ceasefire, but Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu refuses to halt the airstrikes. His government is accused of war crimes and genocide in Gaza, with Netanyahu accusing the UN of anti-Semitism for holding Israel accountable. Meanwhile, Hezbollah is attempting to avoid civilian casualties as it retaliates against Israeli military targets.
As the conflict continues, over 90,000 people have been displaced, seeking refuge in northern towns and cities. However, profiteering landlords in Beirut are raising rent prices, making it difficult for displaced individuals to find affordable housing. Tensions also rise between different communities in Lebanon, with some non-Shia populations resisting the influx of those displaced from Hezbollah-controlled regions.
Despite the ongoing violence, there are hopes for a negotiated ceasefire to prevent further escalation of the conflict. However, many fear that if talks fail, Israel will intensify its bombardment of Lebanon, leading to even greater devastation. The situation remains precarious, with civilians caught in the crossfire as the conflict shows no signs of abating.
Source
Photo credit www.aljazeera.com
