Red Cross outraged by deadly strikes that have plunged Lebanon into 'panic and chaos'

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) expressed outrage Wednesday over the deadly effect of intensified military operations across Lebanon, warning of widespread civilian casualties and destruction.

"The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) is outraged by the devastating death and destruction in densely populated areas across Lebanon today following intensified military operations," it said in a statement. "People across Lebanon were holding their breath for a ceasefire agreement, but a wave of deadly strikes plunged the country into panic and chaos," said Agnes Dhur, the ICRC head of delegation in Lebanon.

"Many who had begun thinking of the moment when they might return to their homes have been rushing to streets and hospitals, searching for missing loved ones or seeking a safety that feels increasingly out of reach," she added.

The ICRC said heavy explosive weapons struck urban areas, including Beirut, without effective warnings, leaving "more than one hundred killed and hundreds more wounded."

It urged all parties to "protect and respect civilians and civilian objects during military operations," stressing the urgent need for relief after weeks of hostilities.

Any comprehensive agreement for the region "must consider the safety, protection and dignity of civilians in Lebanon," said the ICRC, referring to a recent ceasefire reached between the US and Iran late Tuesday.

"After more than five weeks of hostilities, people urgently need respite from the violence," it added.