Two Civilians Killed in Israeli Airstrike Along Lebanon's Southern Coast

An Israeli airstrike killed two civilians travelling in a car along Lebanon's southern coast, including an employee contracted by UNIFIL. The incident adds to the rising civilian casualties in the region since hostilities began on Oct. 8. Lebanese group Hezbollah retaliated with rocket fire into Israeli territory.

An Israeli airstrike on Monday resulted in the deaths of two civilians traveling in a car along Lebanon's southern coast, as confirmed by security sources. Among the deceased was a worker employed by a UN-contracted cleaning company.

The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) verified the incident, stating the vehicle had been struck near the town of Naqoura. 'UNIFIL deplores that so many people have been hurt or killed since 8 October. Attacks on civilians are violations of international humanitarian law. They must stop,' said UNIFIL spokesperson Kandice Ardiel. The Israeli military has yet to comment on the attack.

Security sources identified the airstrike as Israeli and noted that the victims were cousins. In retaliation, Lebanese armed group Hezbollah launched Katyusha rockets into Israeli territory. Hostilities have claimed nearly 140 civilian lives since October 8, exacerbated by ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah alongside the war in Gaza.

(With inputs from agencies.)