Israeli airstrikes killed at least 28 people in southern Lebanon on Saturday, according to Lebanon’s state-run National News Agency, even as reports circulated of a ceasefire agreement.
The attacks hit several cities, including Nabatieh, Tyre and Sidon. Lebanese authorities said casualties included entire families, including children.
Rescue teams continued to evacuate survivors and recover bodies as strikes hit multiple areas across the south.
Airstrikes hit Nabatieh, Tyre and Sidon
Israeli forces carried out air raids across southern Lebanon starting early in the day. The strikes targeted residential areas in Nabatieh, Tyre and Sidon.
In Sidon, an airstrike on Qanarit killed seven people and injured 13 others, according to initial reports. Civil defense teams rushed to the scene to assist victims.
Officials in Nabatieh reported 16 additional deaths as rescue operations continued through the day.
Families among victims as civilian toll rises
In Tyre, an airstrike on the town of Barish killed four members of the same family, including two children. The incident added to growing civilian casualties in the region.
Another person was killed in the eastern town of Suhmur, Lebanese authorities said. Emergency crews evacuated dozens of residents from affected areas.
Civil defense officials reported transporting 16 bodies and 12 injured people to nearby hospitals.
Ceasefire reports clash with ongoing violence
The strikes came despite reports of a ceasefire beginning at 4 pm local time. Israeli media quoted officials confirming the agreement had taken effect.
A senior US official also confirmed the ceasefire, although Hezbollah has not issued any response.
Meanwhile, Lebanese authorities said more than 3,980 people have been killed and over 12,000 injured since March, with more than 1 million displaced.
