US Urges Israel to Protect Civilians and Heritage in Baalbek

The United States has called on Israel to safeguard civilian lives and cultural sites as Israel conducts airstrikes on Baalbek, Lebanon. The U.S. acknowledges Israel's right to pursue Hezbollah but insists operations avoid civilian areas. Efforts are underway for a diplomatic resolution between Israel and Hezbollah.

The United States on Wednesday urged Israel to protect civilian lives and cultural sites in Lebanon following airstrikes on Baalbek, a city known for its Roman temples. While supporting Israel's right to target Hezbollah, the U.S. emphasized avoiding civilian areas, especially in densely populated regions like Baalbek.

Following an evacuation order, Israel's military targeted Baalbek and nearby villages, prompting tens of thousands of Lebanese, including refugees from other areas, to flee. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller stressed that Israel's campaign in Lebanon should not mirror the extensive damage seen in Gaza.

The U.S. maintains diplomatic discussions with Israel to resolve the conflict, and mediators are reportedly working on a ceasefire proposal. The hostilities have escalated in parallel with the Gaza war over the past five weeks.

(With inputs from agencies.)