Southern and eastern Lebanon experienced a significant escalation of violence on Friday, April 10, 2026, as Israeli airstrikes targeted numerous locations, resulting in at least 25 deaths. Among the fatalities were 13 members of Lebanon’s State Security agency, killed in a strike on their headquarters in the city of Nabatieh.
Intensified Airstrikes and Rising Casualties
The attacks, described by the National News Agency as “the most violent since the start of the current war,” impacted 32 towns in southern Lebanon and 5 towns in eastern Lebanon. The strikes targeted areas including Nabatieh’s government seral, where the State Security directorate is located, and a car wash in the town of Jibaa’ in the Iqlim al-Tuffah region.
Additional casualties were reported in the towns of Ansar, As-Samay’iyah in Deir Qanun Ras Al-Ain, and Sahmar. A security source reported approximately 61 airstrikes and drone strikes across the region in recent hours, including one that severed a major international road connecting Hasbaya and Nabatieh.
Health Ministry Reports Increasing Death Toll
The Lebanese Ministry of Public Health announced an updated death toll from Wednesday’s strikes, reaching 357 fatalities and 1223 injuries. This number remains preliminary due to ongoing recovery efforts and the identification of remains, which requires DNA testing. The Ministry had previously reported 303 deaths and 1150 injuries.
The current conflict began on March 2nd, when Hezbollah launched rockets from southern Lebanon towards Israel for the first time since a ceasefire was declared on November 27, 2024. Israel responded with a military campaign targeting Beirut, its southern suburbs, and other areas, including incursions into southern Lebanon.
Frequently Asked Questions
What areas were targeted by the airstrikes?
The airstrikes targeted areas in southern and eastern Lebanon, including the city of Nabatieh, 32 towns in southern Lebanon, and 5 towns in eastern Lebanon.
How many members of the State Security agency were killed?
Thirteen members of Lebanon’s State Security agency were killed in a strike on their headquarters in Nabatieh.
What is the current death toll from Wednesday’s airstrikes?
The current death toll from Wednesday’s airstrikes is 357 fatalities and 1223 injuries, but this number is still preliminary.
As the situation remains fluid, what impact will continued escalation have on the region’s stability and the ongoing efforts to achieve a lasting resolution?
