ALBAWABA- At least 24 people were killed in a wave of 91 Israeli airstrikes and artillery attacks across southern Lebanon on Wednesday, according to casualty figures reported by Anadolu Agency, as Lebanese and Israeli officials launched a new round of U.S.-mediated peace negotiations in Washington.
The victims included four Syrian and Palestinian nationals, nineteen civilian paramedics, and one Lebanese Army soldier, highlighting the growing human toll of the conflict despite ongoing diplomatic efforts to secure a lasting ceasefire.
The extensive bombardment coincided with the opening of the fourth round of bilateral talks between Lebanese and Israeli delegations in the U.S. capital. Led by Prime Minister Nawaf Salam's government, the Lebanese delegation met with American officials to discuss border demarcation, security arrangements, and the phased withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanese territory.
The violence underscored the fragile state of negotiations, with military operations continuing on the ground even as diplomatic discussions proceeded. Israel has maintained that its strikes are aimed at Hezbollah positions and members of the group's elite Radwan Force, which Israeli officials accuse of conducting drone and rocket attacks against northern Israel.
Lebanese authorities, however, condemned the attacks, particularly the deaths of medical personnel and a member of the armed forces, describing them as violations of international humanitarian law and an obstacle to efforts aimed at achieving regional stability.
The escalation prompted an immediate diplomatic response in Washington. Lebanese officials reportedly suspended part of the afternoon negotiating session to lodge a formal protest with U.S. mediators, warning that continued attacks on civilian and emergency-response infrastructure could undermine prospects for a permanent agreement.
Meanwhile, rescue operations in southern Lebanon faced significant challenges. Local health authorities reported difficulties reaching affected communities, citing ongoing military activity and persistent drone surveillance over several border areas.
The latest violence adds further pressure to negotiations already taking place against a backdrop of deep mistrust and recurring cross-border hostilities, raising questions about whether diplomatic efforts can keep pace with developments on the battlefield.
