BEIRUT, Lebanon — 11 May 2026 — At least 39 people were killed in a new wave of Israeli airstrikes across southern and eastern Lebanon on Sunday, according to Lebanese health officials, marking one of the deadliest single‑day escalations since cross‑border hostilities intensified last year.
Lebanon’s Ministry of Public Health said the fatalities included civilians and fighters, though it did not immediately provide a breakdown. Local hospitals in Nabatieh, Tyre, and Baalbek reported being overwhelmed, with emergency staff working through the night to treat dozens of wounded.
The Israeli military said it carried out what it described as “targeted strikes” on positions linked to Hezbollah, the powerful Lebanese armed group and political movement. A spokesperson stated that the operations were in response to “ongoing rocket and drone attacks” launched from Lebanese territory into northern Israel. These claims could not be independently verified.
Hezbollah confirmed that several of its members were killed but accused Israel of hitting residential areas, a charge Israel denied. The group vowed retaliation, saying in a statement that it would “respond proportionally to the aggression.” Hezbollah is designated as a terrorist organisation by several governments, including the United States and the United Kingdom, due to its history of armed attacks and its ties to Iran.
The latest strikes come amid months of steadily rising violence along the Israel‑Lebanon border, where daily exchanges of fire have displaced tens of thousands on both sides. Analysts warn that the situation risks spiralling into a broader regional conflict, especially as fighting continues in Gaza and diplomatic efforts remain stalled.
Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati condemned the attacks as a “dangerous escalation” and called on the international community to pressure Israel to halt its operations. Israel, meanwhile, has insisted it will continue military action until cross‑border attacks cease.
Humanitarian organisations expressed concern about the growing civilian toll. The International Committee of the Red Cross said its teams were responding to “multiple mass‑casualty incidents” and urged all parties to respect international humanitarian law.
Regional diplomats are expected to meet in the coming days to discuss potential de‑escalation measures, though previous attempts have yielded little progress.
As the situation evolves, residents in affected Lebanese towns described a night of fear and uncertainty. “We heard explosions every few minutes,” said a resident of Nabatieh, speaking by phone. “People are terrified. No one knows what will happen next.”