The Masnaa border crossing between Syria and Lebanon has been significantly bombed, according to the UN, limiting people’s ability to flee the escalating violence. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) accused Hezbollah of using the crossing to transport military equipment into Lebanon, leading to the closure of the road near the border. The strikes have left two huge craters on each side of the road, making it difficult for people to pass. More than 300,000 people, mostly Syrian, have crossed from Lebanon into Syria to escape Israeli attacks.
Meanwhile, Hamas’s deputy leader, Khalil al-Hayya, defended the group’s actions in recent attacks against Israel, claiming they were aimed at highlighting the Palestinian cause. He denied intentionally targeting civilians, despite evidence to the contrary. Al-Hayya also accused Israel of seeking to eliminate Hamas and the Palestinian people, urging for a ceasefire and a fully sovereign Palestinian state.
The UK government has pledged an additional £10 million in humanitarian support for Lebanon to address the lack of shelter, clean water, hygiene, and healthcare faced by displaced individuals. The Lebanese health ministry reported 37 people killed in Israeli attacks over the last day, while the Gaza Strip continues to be bombarded with airstrikes causing casualties. Furthermore, Iran’s foreign minister visited Beirut, following the killing of Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah in an Israeli strike. Israeli military warned residents of over 20 southern Lebanese towns to evacuate immediately in the midst of escalating tensions.
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