Israeli attacks kill at least 12 people, injure dozens across Lebanon
Al Jazeera
February 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon have killed at least 12 people, marking a significant breach of the 2024 ceasefire agreement with Hezbollah. The attacks targeted two main locations: the Ein el-Hilweh refugee camp in southern Lebanon and the Bekaa Valley in eastern Lebanon. In the Bekaa region, Israeli air strikes reportedly killed six individuals and injured over 25, while the refugee camp saw at least two deaths. These incidents have drawn condemnation from Lebanese officials and international observers, highlighting concerns over escalating tensions despite the ceasefire.
The attacks on the Bekaa Valley were described as targeting Hezbollah command centers in Baalbek. A senior Hezbollah source confirmed that a military leader was among the casualties. Meanwhile, in the Ein el-Hilweh camp, an Israeli drone strike reportedly hit a building used for security by a Palestinian force but now rented to operate a food kitchen. This incident has raised questions about the humanitarian impact of such actions, especially given the camp’s status as Lebanon’s largest Palestinian refugee settlement.
The ongoing conflict reflects Israel’s continued military presence in Lebanese territories and its frequent violations of the ceasefire. Since November 2024, Israel has carried out over 10,000 attacks, resulting in verified civilian casualties, including women and children. The UN has documented at least 108 civilian deaths from Israeli strikes since the truce, with many displaced individuals unable to return home due to ongoing instability.
Lebanon’s government has filed a formal complaint with the UN Security Council, urging action to halt Israeli violations and ensure full withdrawal from Lebanese territory. The situation underscores broader regional concerns about Israel’s military tactics, Hezbollah’s response, and the humanitarian crisis faced by civilians caught in the crossfire. As global tensions rise, this conflict remains a critical issue for international diplomacy and human rights advocacy.
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Originally published on Al Jazeera on 2/20/2026