The Bekaa region experienced heightened tensions after Israeli airstrikes targeted several areas on Saturday evening, causing extensive damage and sparking fear among residents.

The air raids, some of the most severe in recent memory, hit key locations in Central Bekaa, including Nabi Ayla, Nabi Sheet, Sariin, Karak, Hazerta, and Tamnin. The powerful explosions were felt across the region, shaking homes and businesses and causing widespread devastation.

In addition to the direct strikes, Israeli fighter jets broke the sound barrier over Chtaura and Saadnayel, further escalating the intensity of the attacks. One of the most significant strikes occurred along the Riyak-Baalbek highway, near the Tamnin junction. The shockwaves were felt as far as Zahle, Chtaura, Saadnayel, and even the outskirts of Western Bekaa and Baalbek.

The airstrikes resulted in severe damage to infrastructure. Numerous homes, commercial properties, and institutions were affected, including hospitals such as Tamnin Hospital, Riyak Hospital, and Tel Chiha Hospital. The Antonine University in Riyak also sustained damage. In Zahle, the strikes shattered windows, disrupted the electrical grid, and caused widespread power outages, leaving many residents in the dark.

Following the attacks, Tel Chiha Hospital issued a statement addressing the damage: "Due to the strikes near Zahle this evening, Tel Chiha Hospital sustained minor material damage. We thank God that no patients or staff were harmed. Despite these difficult circumstances, we remain committed to our humanitarian mission and will continue serving the people of Zahle and the Bekaa. We hope this crisis will pass with minimal harm to everyone."

أضرار في مستشفى تل شيحا بسبب قوّة الغارة التي استهدفت البقاع الأوسط منذ قليل pic.twitter.com/6QNOcwnNPj

— kataeb.org (@kataeb_Ar) October 12, 2024

Tragically, an Israeli airstrike also targeted a civilian vehicle on the Qatrani road in Western Bekaa, killing three people and critically injuring a fourth.

Meanwhile, the situation in Nabatiyeh, southern Lebanon, remains dire as Israeli forces launched an airstrike on the marketplace in the city.

غارة استهدفت سوق #النبطية pic.twitter.com/PzSIKJg1ZW

— kataeb.org (@kataeb_Ar) October 12, 2024

استهداف الطائرات الحربية الإسرائيلية لمركز تطوعي للدفاع المدني في الهيئة الصحية الإسلامية في بلدة عيتيت/قضاء صور pic.twitter.com/6k9TEpVkpi

— kataeb.org (@kataeb_Ar) October 12, 2024