Israeli Army Destroys Three More Schools in Southern Lebanon, at Least 20 Total

Herz — World Desk · 18 July 2026 at 04:20 · 30s summary · 3 min read

What We Know

The Israeli military looted and destroyed with explosives three schools in southern Lebanon on July 18, 2026. According to Education Minister Rima Karami, cited by the NNA news agency, the total number of schools destroyed since the conflict began has now reached at least 20.

Over 100 schools have additionally been damaged. In June 2026, UNESCO had reported that 17 schools were destroyed—the total increased to at least 20 following the July 18 destructions.

UNESCO warns that approximately 500,000 Lebanese children remain out of school, with possible long-term consequences for their development.

Context

The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah escalated into open warfare in Lebanon in March 2026, following months of cross-border exchanges that began after the start of the war in Gaza in October 2023. Israel states it is targeting Hezbollah.

The UN Development Programme (UNDP) estimates that over 11,000 buildings have been destroyed in southern Lebanon since the March 2026 escalation.

According to Lebanese authorities, Israeli attacks have killed at least 4,324 people in Lebanon since March 2026, including 250 children. At least 12,223 people have been wounded and over one million displaced.