Israeli Strike in Southern Lebanon Kills 10 Syrian Nationals

An Israeli strike in southern Lebanon has killed at least 10 Syrian nationals, including a woman and her two children, according to Lebanon's Health Ministry. The strike targeted an area suspected of housing a Hezbollah weapons depot. Hezbollah retaliated with rocket fire into northern Israel. Efforts for a cease-fire continue.

An Israeli strike in southern Lebanon early Saturday resulted in the death of at least 10 Syrian nationals, according to Lebanon's Health Ministry.

The attack on Wadi al-Kfour in Nabatieh province is considered one of the deadliest since the Hezbollah militant group and Israeli forces began trading strikes. Hostilities escalated following an October 8 attack by Hamas on southern Israel, igniting the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza. Hezbollah insists it will cease its attacks once a cease-fire in the Gaza Strip is achieved.

The victims, including a woman and her two children, were identified by the ministry. Five others, two critically injured, were also affected. Israeli military spokesperson Avichay Adraee stated the strike targeted a weapons depot belonging to Hezbollah. However, local sources like Mohammad Shoaib, who operates a slaughterhouse in the affected area, and Hussein Shahoud, an uncle to three of the deceased, denied the presence of weapons there.

Hezbollah responded by launching rockets at Ayelet HaShahar in northern Israel, asserting that the 10 Lebanese victims were civilians. The Israeli army confirmed the interception of 55 projectiles, with no reported injuries but multiple fires ignited. Earlier the same day, two Israeli soldiers were injured from a strike originating from Lebanon.

Efforts to de-escalate the conflict have been ongoing, with diplomatic talks and cease-fire negotiations in Qatar continuing. Both sides have experienced significant casualties and displacement, reflecting the fragile and volatile situation in the region.

(With inputs from agencies.)