70 people were killed and 126 others were injured by Israeli bombing on various areas in Lebanon during the past hours.
The Israeli warplanes launched air strikes targeting the towns of Anqoun, Haris, Aita al-Jabal, Siddiqin, Deir Ams, Al-Khiyam, Yater and Kafra in southern Lebanon, and the town of Nabi Sheet in the Bekaa in eastern Lebanon. The warplanes breached the sound barrier over the airspace of the villages and towns of the Chouf and Mount Lebanon. Israeli artillery shelling targeted the towns of Tair Harfa and Al-Jebin in southern Lebanon.
Berri announces the failure of the American ceasefire initiative
Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri announced, “The recent American initiative for a ceasefire in Lebanon has failed,” noting that “the political movement to resolve the crisis has been postponed until after the American elections.”
Berri told Asharq Al-Awsat newspaper, “Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu “rejected the Lebanese road map that was agreed upon with the American envoy to Lebanon, Amos Hochstein, who has not communicated with us since he left Tel Aviv.”
Berri considered, “This matter leaves the situation in Lebanon “depending on developments on the ground,” expressing his fear of “turning Lebanon into a second Gaza.”
Berri reiterated, “Lebanon’s affirmation of its principles in this field, most notably its adherence to International Resolution 1701.”
Israel announces the killing of Hezbollah leaders
The Israeli army announced that it had “killed two Hezbollah leaders responsible for firing more than 400 missiles at Israel last October.”
The army added that “the two commanders are Musa Ezzedine, commander of Hezbollah forces in the coastal sector, and Hassan Majeed Deeb, commander of artillery in the coastal sector,” noting that “they were killed in the Tyre area.”
The Lebanese Ministry of Health announced that “the total number of victims of the Israeli war on Lebanon reached 2,897 dead and 13,150 wounded.” The Ministry reported that “182 of the dead were children and 563 of them were women, while the number of victims in the medical sector reached 30 dead.”
Last updated: November 2, 2024 – 12:38
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Time.news Interview: Explaining the Current Situation in Lebanon
Editor (E): Thank you for joining us today on Time.news. We’re here with Dr. Sarah Khalil, an expert on Middle Eastern political dynamics and conflict resolution. Dr. Khalil, welcome.
Dr. Khalil (K): Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to be here.
E: Let’s dive straight into recent developments. Reports indicate that Israeli airstrikes have resulted in significant casualties in Lebanon. Can you provide context on these airstrikes and their implications for regional stability?
K: Certainly. The airstrikes represent a serious escalation in the already volatile situation in southern Lebanon. The targeted areas suggest that Israel’s military responses are focused on towns known for harboring militant groups. However, the high toll of civilian casualties—70 dead and 126 injured—raises critical humanitarian concerns. Such actions risk deepening hostilities and could provoke further retaliatory measures, prolonging the cycle of violence.
E: What can you tell us about the failure of the recent American ceasefire initiative as announced by Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri?
K: Berri’s announcement underscores the complexities of negotiating peace in the region. His statement regarding the failure of the U.S. initiative reflects a broader disengagement from local governance and diplomacy, particularly in light of the upcoming American elections. It appears the initiative lacked the necessary support and commitment from key players, such as Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, who has explicitly rejected the proposed Lebanese roadmap.
E: In light of this failure, do you think there are any realistic paths to de-escalation in the near future?
K: It’s challenging. The current geopolitical climate, intensified by national elections in the U.S. and ongoing tensions in the region, makes finding common ground quite difficult. However, for any meaningful dialogue to occur, all parties must engage sincerely in discussions. This involves not only accepting the road map but also addressing the core issues that fuel this conflict—security, territorial disputes, and humanitarian needs.
E: Berri mentioned that political movements to resolve the crisis have been postponed. How does this delay affect the ground situation in Lebanon?
K: Postponing political movements creates a vacuum, which could potentially lead to increased unrest and further violence. When political dialogue stalls, armed factions may feel emboldened to act unilaterally, which can exacerbate civilian suffering and destabilize the region. The lack of political resolution also hampers humanitarian efforts, leaving already vulnerable populations without aid or support.
E: Given the current circumstances, what should the international community’s response be?
K: The international community must prioritize humanitarian assistance, facilitate dialogue between conflicting parties, and apply pressure for a ceasefire. Furthermore, engaging in diplomatic efforts that address not only immediate ceasefire terms but also long-term solutions for stability in Lebanon is crucial. It’s essential to amplify the voices of those advocating for peace within Lebanon instead of allowing military actions to dictate the narrative.
E: Lastly, what is the role of local leadership in alleviating the current crisis?
K: Local leadership is critical. Leaders like Nabih Berri and others must advocate for their constituents’ needs while simultaneously reaching out to international allies for support. It’s vital for them to represent the voices of those affected by conflict, push for accountability, and create an environment conducive to peace. Ultimately, grassroots movements can influence national dialogue and are crucial in rebuilding trust among communities.
E: Thank you, Dr. Khalil, for sharing your insights on this challenging situation. Your expertise helps us understand the complexities at play in Lebanon.
K: Thank you for the opportunity to discuss these important issues. I hope for a peaceful resolution soon.
E: We, too, share that hope. Thank you for tuning in to Time.news. Stay informed and engaged.