June 19, 2024
Lebanon’s Hezbollah launched over a dozen projectiles into northern Israel on Wednesday, despite a warning of “total war” from Israel. The Israeli army reported that around 15 projectiles were fired towards Kiryat Shmona, with several intercepted by their aerial defense systems. No casualties were reported from the incoming fire. In retaliation, Israeli artillery targeted the sources of the fire, and warplanes struck a Hezbollah military structure in Tyre and infrastructure in Khiam, Lebanon. Hezbollah claimed responsibility, stating it fired “dozens of Katyusha rockets and artillery rounds” at an Israeli barracks in response to Israeli attacks on Yarun and Khiam.
This exchange of fire occurred a day after Israel approved operational plans for an offensive in Lebanon. US presidential envoy Amos Hochstein called for urgent de-escalation during his visit to Israel and Lebanon.
UN Inquiry and Human Rights Concerns
The UN human rights office (OHCHR) released a report highlighting concerns about Israel’s use of heavy bombs in Gaza, suggesting potential violations of war laws. The report detailed six Israeli attacks in Gaza, raising issues about the use of up to 2,000-pound bombs on residential areas, a school, refugee camps, and a market. The OHCHR accused Israel of not distinguishing between civilians and fighters, and potentially violating principles of minimizing civilian harm. Israel’s UN mission in Geneva criticized the OHCHR report as flawed, arguing it lacked a comprehensive factual basis.
Escalation in Gaza
Israeli airstrikes and clashes with Palestinian militants continued in Gaza. Witnesses reported heavy bombardment in western Rafah, resulting in the deaths of at least seven people. Israeli forces, supported by tanks and warplanes, advanced into the Zeitoun neighborhood in Gaza City, leading to heavy fighting with Hamas fighters. Medics reported the deaths of four Palestinians, including a child, from an airstrike in the Sheikh Radwan suburb.
Humanitarian Crisis and International Reactions
The head of a UN inquiry accused the Israeli military of “extermination” of Palestinians, citing the immense civilian casualties and destruction of infrastructure in Gaza. This accusation came during a meeting of the UN human rights council in Geneva, where both Hamas and Israel were accused of war crimes. However, Israel was singled out for the most severe abuses, classified as “crimes against humanity.”
Meanwhile, the Greek foreign minister urged Europe to host children affected by the war in Gaza. The Israeli government also claimed that the US was withholding weapons, which the US denied, stating that only a shipment of heavy bombs was under review due to concerns over civilian casualties.
The conflict has led to significant loss of life, with Gaza’s health ministry reporting at least 37,396 Palestinians killed and 85,523 injured since October 7. In Lebanon, clashes between Hezbollah and Israeli forces have resulted in the deaths of 473 people, including 92 civilians. Israel reported 15 soldiers and 11 civilian deaths in the north.
Conclusion
The situation remains dire, with continued violence and humanitarian concerns escalating. Efforts for de-escalation are crucial to prevent further loss of life and widespread destruction. For ongoing updates, follow our comprehensive Israel-Gaza coverage.
