As toll reaches 700 in a week, Lebanon braces for Gaza-style escalation

Nearly 700 individuals have lost their lives in Lebanon this week, according to the country's health ministry. High-ranking Israeli officials have warned of a potential repeat of Gaza's devastation in Lebanon if Hezbollah's attacks persist, sparking concerns that Israel's actions in Gaza since October 7 could be mirrored in Lebanon.

The United States, France, and other allies have collectively called for a 21-day cease-fire in the escalating conflict. Lebanon’s foreign minister expressed support for these efforts while condemning Israel's "systematic destruction" of villages near the Lebanese border.

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Israeli military vehicles were spotted moving tanks and armored units toward the northern border with Lebanon, as commanders initiated a call-up of reservists. Prime Minister Netanyahu vowed that Israel is targeting Hezbollah “with full force” and vowed to continue the strikes until all military objectives are met.

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The Israeli military reported that four drones crossed the border from Lebanon but were successfully intercepted. Earlier in the day, 10 projectiles were fired from Lebanon, with some intercepted and others landing in open fields.

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An overnight Israeli airstrike on a military site in the area of Kfar Yabous in Syria near the border with Lebanon killed five Syrian army soldiers and injured scores.

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Tens of thousands of Lebanese and Syrians have fled across the border into Syria this week, seeking refuge from intense Israeli bombardments. Israel stated the strikes are aimed at Hezbollah militants and their weapons infrastructure.

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On Friday, a group of international trade unions filed a complaint against Israel at the United Nations labor organization, seeking compensation for 200,000 Palestinians who have been unpaid or had their benefits withheld since the October 7 attacks.