Lebanon Decries Israeli Airstrikes as Attack on Journalists
Lebanon has condemned recent Israeli airstrikes that killed three journalists in the country’s southern region, with Lebanese Information Minister Ziad Makary labeling the strike a “war crime.” According to Makary, Israel’s targeting of journalists was premeditated, occurring during a time when reporters were resting, with 18 journalists present in the area representing seven media organizations. “This is an assassination… with prior planning,” Makary stated on X (formerly Twitter).
Lebanese state media confirmed that Israeli strikes have killed three journalists in Zahle, near the Syrian border, and have flattened multiple buildings in the southern suburbs of Beirut. The attack reportedly hit a hotel in Hasbaya, around 50 kilometers south of Beirut. Israel had issued evacuation warnings in the area, citing its intent to target Hezbollah-associated facilities.
Widespread Impact and Warnings
Israeli military strikes extended to Choueifat in south Beirut, igniting fires and destroying buildings, while further strikes targeted the Saint Therese area and other Hezbollah strongholds. Avichay Adraee, spokesperson for the Israel Defense Forces, posted maps showing targeted areas and warned civilians near Hezbollah facilities to evacuate.
Since late September, Israel has escalated its air campaign in Lebanon, initially aimed at curbing Hezbollah activity. The ongoing conflict has resulted in a high civilian toll, with Lebanese health officials reporting at least 1,580 deaths attributed to the strikes, although this number is expected to be higher due to incomplete data.
The Committee to Protect Journalists has reported a growing toll on media workers, with 128 journalists documented killed in Gaza, the West Bank, Israel, and Lebanon since the onset of the Israel-Hamas war in October 2023.