Over 4,200 dead in Lebanon from Israeli offensive since March

Lebanon has recorded at least 4,257 deaths and 12,196 injuries since Israel launched its offensive on March 2, according to the Lebanese Ministry of Health's Emergency Operations Center. These figures continue to rise despite a framework agreement reached Friday mediated by the United States. The ministry's statement, reported by the National News Agency (ANN), indicated that 86% of the casualties were men and 94% were Lebanese nationals. The southern regions of Nabatieh and Sour have borne the brunt of the Israeli attacks. The conflict has severely impacted the healthcare sector, with 135 health workers killed and 406 injured. Additionally, 17 hospitals have sustained damage, and three have been forced to cease operations. Reports from ANN also detail ongoing Israeli artillery attacks on southern Lebanese towns, including Hadatha, and significant damage to homes in Majdal Zoun and Mansouri from overnight bombings. The war between Israel and Hezbollah has led to the displacement of over a million people within Lebanon. However, Lebanese Minister of Social Affairs Hanin al Sayed announced that official estimates suggest approximately 400,000 people, or 40%, have returned to their hometowns. The number of displaced individuals in shelters has also decreased to 13,000 from an initial 37,000. The Lebanese government plans to keep these shelters open to accommodate those still unable to return to their conflict-devastated homes. Israel and Lebanon signed a framework agreement last Friday, outlining a roadmap towards "lasting peace and security," as published by the U.S. Department of State. This agreement follows the conflict that began within the broader context of the war in Iran.