BEIRUT: According to the Lebanese Ministry of Health, Israeli attacks in Beirut and southern Lebanon have killed 31 people and injured 149 others.

The ministry said the toll is preliminary. Earlier, Israel warned residents of more than 50 towns and villages in Lebanon to evacuate immediately.

The Israeli military said it is carrying out targeted strikes in response to launches from Hezbollah.

Hezbollah confirmed firing missiles and drones toward Israel, stating the action was in retaliation for the assassination of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.