UNICEF Warns 77 Children Killed or Injured in Lebanon as Death Toll Rises
UNICEF Warns 77 Children Killed or Injured in Lebanon as Death Toll Rises
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UNICEF says 77 children were killed or injured in Lebanon over the past week as Israeli airstrikes intensified across the south, despite a ceasefire announced in April. Lebanon’s Health Ministry says the overall toll since March 2 has risen to 3,355 killed and 10,095 wounded.
UNICEF has warned that 77 children were killed or injured in Lebanon over the past seven days amid intensified Israeli airstrikes on several areas of southern Lebanon.
The UN children’s agency said the figure means an average of around 11 children have become casualties every 24 hours, describing the toll as a serious indication of the continuing humanitarian impact of the military escalation on civilians.
According to UNICEF, 55 children have been killed and 212 others injured since the ceasefire, announced through U.S. mediation in mid-April, came into effect. The organization stressed the need to protect civilians, especially children and families, under international humanitarian law.
The warning came as Israel expanded airstrikes on towns and villages in southern Lebanon after declaring areas south of the Zahrani River a combat zone. Israeli strikes also targeted parts of Beirut’s southern suburbs, while displacement from affected areas continued.
Lebanon’s Health Ministry said the total number of victims since March 2 has risen to 3,355 martyred and 10,095 wounded. It reported 31 deaths and 68 injuries in the previous 24 hours alone, reflecting the continued deterioration of the security and humanitarian situation.
Lebanese Culture Minister Ghassan Salameh also warned that several major archaeological sites are under direct threat from the bombing. He said sites listed as world heritage locations, including the ruins of Tyre and the Beaufort Castle near Arnoun, face serious danger as military operations intensify.
Video footage showed flames and smoke rising after an airstrike hit a building near the archaeological district in Tyre.
