Israeli airstrikes intensified in Lebanon and northern Gaza on Sunday, resulting in significant casualties, including children. In Lebanon, the strikes killed dozens, according to officials. The village of Aalmat, located north of Beirut, was among the impacted areas. Rescuers reported numerous fatalities, and the Lebanese health ministry confirmed at least 22 deaths with more than 100 injured. Strikes also targeted isolated regions in northern Gaza, where children were among those killed.
The Israeli military described the strikes as a response to a series of attacks by Iranian-backed militant groups, including Hezbollah and Hamas. The conflict has drawn international attention, with many watching how the United States’ recent election might influence the ongoing hostilities.
In a separate development, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reportedly held discussions with former U.S. President Donald Trump. According to various sources, the conversations occurred three times since the U.S. election. Netanyahu and Trump have a history of close relations, and their discussions reportedly focused on matters concerning Iran and the broader Middle East conflict.
Tensions in Lebanon have been escalating since October, with Israeli forces engaging in a series of operations targeting Hezbollah and other militant factions. Hezbollah, labeled a terrorist organization by many Western countries, has been active across the Lebanese border, conducting rocket attacks that have further fueled tensions. The group intensified its operations following an attack by Hamas on Israel on October 7, 2023, which led to an aggressive Israeli military response.
The ongoing conflict has resulted in significant casualties on both sides. Lebanese officials report that over 3,100 people have been killed in Lebanon since October 2023, with many more injured. Similarly, in Gaza, the situation remains dire, with thousands of casualties reported since the beginning of hostilities.
International reactions have been varied. Some nations have called for restraint and negotiations, while others have expressed unequivocal support for Israel’s right to defend itself. The United Nations has been actively involved in seeking diplomatic solutions, although peace efforts have yet to yield significant results.
Meanwhile, the recent communications between Netanyahu and Trump have drawn public interest. Trump’s return to political prominence has sparked discussions about potential shifts in U.S. foreign policy, particularly regarding the Middle East. Sources indicate that Netanyahu sees Trump’s election victory as an opportunity to strengthen U.S.-Israel relations further. Despite the cordial nature of their discussions, Trump’s stance on the ongoing conflict has been clear. Reports suggest he urged Netanyahu to resolve the Gaza war swiftly.
