Tue Sep 24 21:39:02 UTC 2024: ## Israel-Hezbollah Conflict Escalates, Death Toll Soars to 558
**BEIRUT/JERUSALEM** – The death toll from two days of Israeli airstrikes on Lebanon has climbed to 558, including 50 children and 94 women, as Israel and Hezbollah engage in a fierce exchange of fire, raising fears of a full-blown war.
The fighting intensified on Monday (September 23) with Israel launching hundreds of airstrikes on southern and eastern Lebanon, killing nearly 500 people and injuring more than 1,600. The bombardment prompted a mass exodus of residents from southern Lebanon, creating the largest displacement since the 2006 Israel-Hezbollah war.
Hezbollah retaliated with over 100 rockets fired into northern Israel, reaching as far as the city of Haifa. While most were intercepted, two people sustained minor injuries from shrapnel in northern Israel.
On Tuesday (September 24), the conflict continued with both sides launching strikes. The United States is urging de-escalation, with officials in talks with allies to find a way out of the escalating tensions.
The death toll in Gaza also rose, with Israeli airstrikes killing at least seven people in the southern city of Khan Younis. The overall death toll in Gaza since the war began on October 7 has reached 41,467, with 95,921 wounded.
The escalating conflict has caused widespread displacement and fear in Lebanon. Thousands of families are seeking refuge in shelters, schools, and makeshift accommodations. In Gaza, residents continue to seek shelter from the relentless Israeli bombardment.
International concern is growing over the spiraling violence. The U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem has restricted government employees from traveling to Israel’s north, and the State Department is urging American citizens to leave the country. Airlines in the United Arab Emirates have also cancelled flights to Lebanon.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has accused Hezbollah of using civilians as human shields, warning Lebanese citizens to move away from danger. Hezbollah has maintained that it is defending Lebanon from Israeli aggression.
The situation remains extremely volatile, with both sides indicating they are prepared for further escalation.
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