Israeli airstrikes have resulted in the deaths of 19 individuals, including eight women, near Baalbek, a city in eastern Lebanon, according to the Lebanese health ministry. This escalation occurred shortly after the Israeli military issued evacuation orders for Baalbek and two adjacent towns, prompting tens of thousands to flee.

Mayor Mustafa al-Shell informed the BBC that over 20 airstrikes occurred on Wednesday afternoon, with five directly impacting the city itself, which is home to an ancient Roman temple complex recognized by UNESCO. The Israeli military claimed these strikes targeted Hezbollah command centers and infrastructure in Baalbek and Nabatiyeh while also hitting fuel depots in the Bekaa Valley.

Reports from Lebanon’s state news agency indicated that diesel tanks were struck in Douris, leading to significant smoke clouds visible in the area. These assaults coincided with remarks from Hezbollah’s newly appointed secretary-general, Naim Qassem, who asserted that the group would persist with its military strategies against Israel and would not call for a ceasefire. Qassem intends to continue the policies of his predecessor, Hassan Nasrallah, who was killed in an Israeli strike last month.

The recent Israeli air campaign has caused extensive damage across southern Lebanon and Beirut’s suburbs. The focus appears to be shifting towards eastern Lebanon, particularly Baalbek, a crucial area for Hezbollah given its strategic location near Syria and Iraq. This region has been instrumental for Hezbollah’s operations and recruitment efforts.

On Wednesday morning, evacuation orders were issued for all of Baalbek and surrounding areas as Israel vowed to take decisive action against Hezbollah assets. Local program manager Roula Zeaiter reported widespread panic among residents, exacerbated by recent displacements from other regions of Lebanon.

Mustafa al-Shell estimated that approximately 50,000 people evacuated within two hours due to fear of impending strikes. He described how airstrikes targeted residential buildings but insisted there were no military facilities in Baalbek itself.

The Lebanese health ministry later reported additional casualties from strikes in Salibi Farm and Bednayel. After these attacks, Israel stated it had conducted targeted strikes on fuel depots used by Hezbollah’s logistical unit responsible for weapon transfers from Iran.

Despite claims that none of the strikes impacted UNESCO sites, al-Shell raised concerns about potential threats to these ancient ruins. UNESCO itself warned that heritage sites throughout the Middle East are at risk due to ongoing conflicts. The violence has resulted in significant loss of life on both sides since October 7th and has displaced millions across Lebanon.