Escalation in Lebanon Leaves Nearly 700 Dead

This week, nearly 700 people have been killed in Lebanon amid escalating Israeli airstrikes aimed at Hezbollah, according to the country's health ministry. The International Organization for Migration reported that over 200,000 people have been displaced since Hezbollah's rocket attacks on northern Israel began in support of Hamas. Israeli officials have threatened a repeat of Gaza's devastation in Lebanon if the violence continues. In response, the United States, France, and other allies have called for a 21-day ceasefire, which Lebanon welcomed while condemning Israel's actions. Protests erupted in New York against Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu's visit, with demonstrators demanding an end to the conflict. Despite international calls for restraint, Netanyahu affirmed that Israel will pursue its military objectives against Hezbollah 'with full force.'