Lebanon reported on Friday that at least 18 people were killed in Israeli airstrikes, while planned talks between the United States and Iran over the nuclear program were postponed indefinitely. The strikes, which targeted areas in southern Lebanon and the Bekaa Valley, marked one of the deadliest days in the region in recent months.
Details of the Strikes
According to Lebanese officials, the Israeli military conducted multiple airstrikes on what it described as Hezbollah weapons storage sites and command centers. The strikes hit residential areas in the villages of Kfar Kila, Taybeh, and Meiss el-Jabal, causing widespread destruction. The Lebanese Health Ministry confirmed 18 deaths and over 50 injuries, including women and children.
Israel said the strikes were in response to rocket fire from Lebanon into northern Israel earlier this week. Hezbollah, the Iran-backed militant group, denied involvement in the rocket attacks but vowed retaliation for the airstrikes.
US-Iran Talks Postponed
The escalation comes as the United States and Iran were set to resume nuclear negotiations in Vienna next week. However, both sides announced a postponement, citing the heightened tensions. US Vice President JD Vance, who had been involved in brokering a preliminary deal to end the war, expressed disappointment but reaffirmed the US commitment to diplomacy.
“We are deeply concerned by the violence in Lebanon and the region. The postponement of talks is unfortunate, but we remain ready to engage with Iran when the situation allows,” Vance said in a statement.
International Reaction
The United Nations called for an immediate de-escalation, urging both Israel and Hezbollah to exercise restraint. The European Union condemned the strikes and called for a ceasefire. Iran blamed Israel for undermining the diplomatic process and warned of consequences.
The postponement of talks raises questions about the future of the nuclear deal, which has been a cornerstone of US-Iran relations. Analysts warn that further violence could derail any chance of a diplomatic resolution.
As the region braces for more violence, families in Lebanon mourn their dead and hope for a return to peace.
