Death toll from Israeli airstrikes across Lebanon rises to 356, injuries to 1,246

BEIRUT -- Israeli airstrikes across Lebanon on Monday resulted in 356 deaths, including 24 children and 42 women, with 1,246 others injured, according to the Lebanese Health Ministry.

The Israeli army conducted intensive raids in southern and eastern Lebanon, displacing thousands of residents toward Beirut and Mount Lebanon. Citizens attempted to flee from the cities of Tyre, Nabatieh, and Iqlim al-Tuffah, leading to congested main roads filled with civilian vehicles.

In response to the crisis, authorities in Tyre have called for public and high schools to be opened to accommodate the displaced.

Israeli media reported that the target of the airstrike in Beirut on Monday evening was senior Hezbollah commander Ali Karaki, citing anonymous security sources. Later, Hezbollah issued a statement claiming that Karaki is "safe."

Meanwhile, Israel declared a "special" security situation nationwide on Monday night, amid concerns that Hezbollah may escalate its retaliatory attacks.

IDF Spokesman Daniel Hagari stated that Defense Minister Yoav Gallant made the declaration after a situational assessment, with no new restrictions imposed beyond those already in place in northern Israel due to the ongoing Hezbollah fire.

On Monday night, Hezbollah extended its rocket fire range, targeting Haifa for the first time since the conflict began last October.

Since Oct 8, 2023, Hezbollah and the Israeli army have been exchanging fire across the Lebanese-Israeli border amid fears of a broader conflict as the war between Hamas and Israel continues in the Gaza Strip.