The condemnation comes as Lebanon declares a national day of mourning after Israeli airstrikes killed at least 189 people and wounded 890 others, with some local sources reporting up to 250 fatalities.
The ICRC’s statement emphasized that any comprehensive agreement for the region must prioritize the safety, protection, and dignity of Lebanese civilians, who have endured over five weeks of relentless violence. The organization stressed the urgent need for an immediate cessation of hostilities.
Lebanese Red Cross teams deployed 100 ambulances across the country to evacuate victims and transport the injured to overwhelmed hospitals, while rescue efforts continue for those trapped under rubble.
Israel carried out airstrikes across Lebanon shortly after Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced that Iran, the United States, and their allies had reached a ceasefire agreement covering Lebanon and other areas.
The strikes, which targeted multiple regions, have raised concerns about the fragility of diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the conflict and alleviate the worsening humanitarian situation.
Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati declared Thursday a national day of mourning, ordering government offices, municipalities, and public institutions to close. Flags will fly at half-mast, and radio and television programming will reflect the “painful national tragedy.”
Mikati extended his “heartfelt condolences to the Lebanese people, especially the families of the martyrs,” and vowed to intensify diplomatic efforts with Arab nations and international officials to halt Israel’s “killing machine.”
The United Nations also condemned the strikes, with Deputy Spokesperson Farhan Haq calling the civilian casualties “unacceptable.”