New Delhi (India) April 9:On Wednesday, Lebanon’s health ministry reported a tragic toll of at least 112 lives lost and 800 people injured due to Israeli airstrikes in Beirut. These unprovoked attacks targeted bustling commercial and residential areas in the heart of the city, just hours after a ceasefire was declared in the US-Israeli conflict with Iran .
President Aoun Slams Israel
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun condemned the strikes as brutal.
“Today, Israel persists once again in its aggression, committing a new massacre to add to its record, in blatant defiance of all human values, and in disregard of all efforts aimed at calming the situation and achieving stability," Aoun said.
As black smoke billowed over the seaside capital, the city—a refuge for many displaced by conflict—was transformed from a lively, sunlit afternoon into a scene of chaos. The sound of explosions pierced through the usual honking of traffic, and ambulances raced toward the flames. Residential buildings were struck, leaving devastation in their wake.
Trump: Lebanon Excluded Over Hezbollah Ties
US President Donald Trump commented on the situation during an interview with PBS News Hour, stating that Lebanon was not included in the ceasefire agreement due to the presence of Hezbollah, a militant group supported by Iran. However, mediators from Pakistan indicated that the ceasefire should apply to Lebanon as well. Just as many Lebanese felt a momentary sense of relief with the ceasefire announcement, panic set in as the Israeli military launched its largest coordinated assault, targeting over 100 Hezbollah positions in a matter of minutes across Beirut and the eastern Bekaa Valley.
Chaos in Beirut After Attacks
The strikes hit densely populated neighborhoods, wreaking havoc and claiming more innocent lives. Emergency responders and civil defense teams worked tirelessly to clear debris and reach those trapped under the rubble.
One of the first major attacks struck a café in Saida, tragically killing eight people and injuring 22 others. In Baalbek, a funeral was also targeted, resulting in at least 10 deaths and additional injuries.
Pakistani PM Sharif Urges Restraint
The Prime Minister of Pakistan, who played a role in mediating the ceasefire between the US and Iran, emphasized that Lebanon was indeed part of the agreement and urged all parties to exercise caution in light of the escalating violence.
“Violations of the ceasefire have been reported at a few places across the conflict zone, which undermine the spirit of the peace process. I earnestly and sincerely urge all parties to exercise restraint and respect the ceasefire for two weeks, as agreed upon, so that diplomacy can take a lead role towards a peaceful settlement of the conflict," Shehbaz Sharif said.