Israeli killings in Lebanon rise: Is even the pretence of a ceasefire over?

Israel and Hezbollah have intensified clashes in Lebanon, undermining a ceasefire that began April 16 after six weeks of fighting. Lebanese authorities reported 51 civilian deaths in Israeli attacks over the past 24 hours, including two medical workers, with strikes targeting health facilities in Qalawiya and Tibnin. The United Nations confirmed at least 103 Lebanese medical personnel have been killed and 230 injured since Israel’s March 2 invasion, which displaced over a million people. On Monday, Israeli airstrikes hit the town of Abba, killing two and wounding five, while warplanes targeted Kfar Remman twice within an hour. The Israeli military warned residents of nine southern Lebanese areas to evacuate ahead of potential operations. Lebanese Civil Defence head Ali Safiuddin described constant threats, stating, ‘We ask ourselves if we’re going to survive or if we’re going to die.’ Dr. Tahir Mohammed, a war surgeon, compared Israeli tactics in Lebanon to those in Gaza, calling the targeting of healthcare workers ‘consistent.’ He warned of Israel’s intent to occupy southern Lebanon, asserting, ‘They have no care for life.’ The escalation raises questions about whether the ceasefire remains functional or if open conflict has resumed. Israel’s offensive includes a ground invasion and occupation of southern Lebanon, with strikes continuing despite international humanitarian laws protecting medical personnel. The Lebanese Health Ministry condemned Israel’s violations, emphasizing the deliberate targeting of paramedics and health infrastructure.