Israeli strikes: Lebanon counts over 4,246 dead since March; Trump frown at toll

Israeli attacks across Lebanon have resulted in the deaths of at least 4,246 people and injured 12,190 others since March 2, according to the Lebanese Health Ministry. The figures, released Saturday, highlight the significant human cost of the conflict between Israel and the Hezbollah militant group, which intensified earlier this year. The ministry stated that casualties include women, children, and healthcare workers. The conflict escalated after Hezbollah launched missile and drone attacks on Israel on March 2, citing retaliation for regional developments involving Iran. Israel responded with widespread air and ground operations targeting Hezbollah sites in southern Lebanon, the Bekaa Valley, and Beirut's southern suburbs. These operations have also damaged essential infrastructure like hospitals, power stations, and water facilities. U.S. President Donald Trump has voiced criticism regarding the extent of Israel's military actions in Lebanon. "You do not have to knock down an apartment house every time you’re looking for somebody, because there are a lot of people in those apartment houses, and they’re not all Hezbollah, that I can tell you," he told reporters at the G7 summit. Despite multiple announced ceasefires, they have repeatedly failed amid continued strikes and retaliatory attacks. Negotiations, supported by the U.S. and international partners, are underway to secure a more lasting ceasefire and arrangements for southern Lebanon. Lebanese authorities have repeatedly warned that the country's healthcare system is severely strained due to attacks on civilian areas, medical facilities, and emergency responders. A preliminary agreement reached in the U.S. on Friday, following four days of talks, reportedly includes Israel's withdrawal from two positions in southern Lebanon, handing control to the Lebanese Armed Forces. A senior Israeli official indicated the U.S.-mediated talks resulted in a three-way agreement between Israel, Lebanon, and the United States, aimed at paving the way for a broader peace settlement. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) would withdraw from positions north and south of the Litani River. The agreement also proposes a process for disarming Hezbollah, a plan the group has rejected.

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You do not have to knock down an apartment house every time you’re looking for somebody, because there are a lot of people in those apartment houses, and they’re not all Hezbollah, that I can tell you