In Lebanon, the missiles fall and the crisis mounts, despite the ceasefire
Despite a nominal ceasefire announced by US President Donald Trump, fighting between Israel and Hezbollah continues to displace thousands and worsen humanitarian conditions in Lebanon. Aid agencies report a growing health and protection crisis, particularly for women and girls, with over 620,000 displaced and critical infrastructure damaged. The ceasefire, initially for 10 days and later extended, remains fragile with no clear progress toward a lasting peace deal.
- ▪Israeli forces have targeted southern Lebanon, killing nine people in a single day, including two children, according to the Lebanese Health Ministry.
- ▪Anandita Philipose, UNFPA representative in Lebanon, stated that the situation has evolved into a protection and health crisis for women and girls.
- ▪Over 620,000 women and girls are among those displaced in Lebanon, including 13,500 pregnant women, according to UN estimates.
- ▪The ceasefire, announced by Donald Trump on April 16, was extended for three weeks and could end by May 17 without a formal peace agreement.
- ▪Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reportedly aims to dismantle Hezbollah, and there are indications he may travel to Washington for talks with Trump.
- ▪Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has expressed willingness to negotiate a peace deal with Israel, but no significant progress has been made.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at The Sydney Morning Herald.