By Amofokhai Williams
The death toll from intense Israeli airstrikes across Lebanon on Wednesday has climbed to more than 300, according to the country’s Health Ministry, marking one of the deadliest single-day escalations in the ongoing conflict with Hezbollah.
Initial reports cited 203 fatalities and over 1,000 injuries, but the toll has since risen sharply to exceed 300 killed and around 1,150 wounded, with rescue operations still underway and figures likely to increase further.
Lebanon has declared Thursday a national day of mourning, with public institutions closed, flags lowered to half-mast, and official broadcasts adjusted in tribute to the victims.
Prime Minister Nawaf Salam described the strikes as targeting “hundreds of innocent civilians.”
The Israeli military stated the operation targeted Hezbollah infrastructure and militants. The attacks come amid fragile regional tensions, raising concerns over a potential broader escalation despite recent diplomatic efforts.
The overall death toll in Lebanon from the conflict since early 2026 now surpasses 1,500, according to health authorities.
