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Tensions in the Middle East: The conflict between Israel and Lebanon intensifies

Map of tensions between Israel and Lebanon in 2023

The situation in Lebanon and Gaza is worsening with air strikes and calls for a ceasefire.

A conflict that reignites

In recent days, the situation in the Middle East has seen a worrying escalation, with the conflict between Israel and Lebanon reaching new levels of intensity. The speaker of the Lebanese parliament, Nabih Berry, declared that the American initiative for a ceasefire has failed, highlighting the refusal of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to accept the road map proposed by Lebanon. This refusal has led to an increase in tensions, with Israeli air strikes resulting in at least 24 deaths in eastern Lebanon.

Airstrikes and Humanitarian Consequences

The Israeli Air Force has conducted numerous raids in the Bekaa Valley and other areas of Lebanon, hitting buildings and villages. These attacks have raised international concerns, particularly for the cultural heritage of the historic cities of Tyre and Baalbek, which are threatened by violence. Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, the UN Special Coordinator for Lebanon, warned that the country's cultural heritage must not become another casualty of this devastating conflict.

The humanitarian crisis in Gaza

In parallel, the situation in the Gaza Strip continues to deteriorate. Recent Israeli attacks have resulted in the deaths of dozens of Palestinians, including many children and women. The plight of Palestinian refugees is critical, with the United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) denouncing an Israeli-imposed ban as a “death sentence” for millions of people facing hunger and destitution. The international community is on high alert, while calls for a unilateral ceasefire by the United States appear to be falling on deaf ears in Beirut.

international reactions

Tensions between Israel and Lebanon have attracted international attention, with the United States calling for a ceasefire to facilitate peace talks. However, the Lebanese government has denied these calls, making the possibility of an agreement uncertain. The situation is further complicated by the threat of a possible Iranian attack in response to Israeli attacks, creating a climate of instability that could have repercussions throughout the region.