Al Mayadeen English
Civilian casualties from bombing or other explosive violence have reached a record high in 2024, with 61,353 civilians killed or injured; a 67% increase from 2023, according to Action on Armed Violence (AOAV). Israeli wars accounted for 55% of these casualties (33,910), followed by the war in Ukraine at 19% (11,693). Gaza was the hardest-hit region, comprising 39% of all casualties, with over 23,600 deaths reported. The report highlighted that AOAV's findings undercount the true toll, as it based its study on English-language reports only.
Protesters at Beirut Airport Road met with with tear gas grenades
Earlier today, Hezbollah called for a popular protest to denounce "Israeli interference" and "the imposition of conditions on national sovereignty" near Beirut's vital Airport Road. During the protest, the Lebanese army fired tear gas to disperse demonstrators, resulting in cases of fainting among the protesters. Gunfire was also heard in the area. In a related context, the Lebanese Army issued a warning on Friday evening against actions that could escalate internal tensions, as the country navigates a critical period.