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ConflictsLebanon

At least 12 killed after Israel strikes central Beirut

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Halida Abbaro
March 18, 2026

Warplanes continued to pound Lebanon's capital, Beirut, on Wednesday, in a further escalation of the US-Israeli war against Iran. Authorities say at least 12 people were killed.

Israeli warplanes hit central Beirut early Wednesday, expanding the US‑Israeli war against Iran. Lebanese authorities say at least 12 people were killed when apartment buildings in several residential districts were struck — among the most intense attacks on the capital in decades. Three densely populated neighborhoods were hit in quick succession. In Bashoura, an entire building was flattened. Israel had previously called it a Hezbollah site, but residents and officials disputed this. Two other neighborhoods were also bombed, including one near government offices and embassies. Residents said they received no warning and were still in bed when the missiles hit. Lebanese officials say Israeli strikes have killed more than 900 people since the beginning of March and displaced over 1 million.

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