Baalbek, Lebanon – Israeli strikes in the eastern city of Baalbek have resulted in the deaths of 19 people, including eight women, according to the country’s health ministry. These airstrikes followed evacuation orders issued by the Israeli military, causing tens of thousands of residents to flee the area. The mayor of Baalbek reported more than 20 strikes in the region, targeting key locations like a Unesco-listed ancient Roman temple complex within the city.

The Israeli military claimed to have targeted Hezbollah command-and-control centers and infrastructure in Baalbek and Nabatiyeh, as well as fuel depots in the Bekaa Valley. These attacks came amidst a statement from Hezbollah’s new secretary-general announcing the group’s commitment to continuing its conflict with Israel, dismissing calls for a ceasefire.

The escalating violence in Baalbek, a vital area for Hezbollah’s influence and support, signals an expansion of the Israeli military campaign against the group in Lebanon. With its strategic location in the Bekaa Valley near the Syrian border, Baalbek serves as a crucial link in the route connecting Hezbollah to its allies in Syria, Iraq, and Iran.

The Israeli military’s evacuation orders for Baalbek and neighboring towns like Ain Bourday and Douris raised panic among residents, compelling many to flee within hours. Videos circulating online captured the chaos and traffic jams as people tried to escape the city. The strikes targeted residential buildings, leading to casualties and destruction in various parts of Baalbek and its vicinity.

Despite the intensity of the airstrikes, Baalbek’s iconic Roman ruins, classified as a Unesco World Heritage site, remained unscathed. Concerns over the preservation of cultural heritage amidst the conflict prompted calls for international intervention to protect such sites in Lebanon and across the Middle East. In response to the escalating situation, diplomatic efforts were underway to broker a ceasefire and end the cycle of violence between Israel and Hezbollah.

As the conflict persists, casualties continue to rise on both sides, with thousands displaced and communities devastated by the ongoing hostilities. The intricate dynamics between Israel, Hezbollah, and other regional actors underscore the complexities of the situation, with efforts to reach a lasting peace remaining a significant challenge amidst the turmoil in Baalbek and beyond.