Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has confirmed that he authorized a series of airstrikes in Lebanon that resulted in the deaths of nearly 40 people. The attacks, which targeted locations in southern Lebanon, were part of Israel’s broader military response to escalating hostilities along its northern border with Hezbollah, the militant group based in Lebanon.

Netanyahu’s confirmation came after widespread reports of the airstrikes, which are said to have been carried out in retaliation for rocket fire from Lebanon into Israeli territory. While Israel’s official stance has been that the strikes were aimed at neutralizing Hezbollah positions, the attacks have sparked significant controversy due to the high civilian toll. Reports from Lebanese officials indicate that the victims were mostly civilians, raising concerns about potential violations of international law.

The timing of Netanyahu’s statement is significant, as it comes amid mounting criticism both domestically and internationally over Israel’s use of force in Lebanon. Some observers argue that the heavy airstrikes have been disproportionate and could lead to further regional instability. Human rights organizations have called for an independent investigation into the attacks, citing the potential for war crimes.

Israel’s military has insisted that it targets only militant infrastructure and that it takes precautions to minimize civilian casualties. However, the high death toll has reignited debates over Israel’s military tactics and its strategy in dealing with Hezbollah, a group considered by Israel and many Western nations as a terrorist organization. The situation remains tense, with fears that the conflict could escalate into a broader regional war.

In the aftermath of Netanyahu’s confirmation, international calls for restraint have grown louder, urging both Israel and Hezbollah to de-escalate the violence and return to diplomatic channels to avoid further loss of life.