The Lebanese Ministry of Economy and Trade sought to reassure consumers on Tuesday, emphasizing that "the stock of wheat available in the local market is sufficient for at least two months." The announcement, published in a statement, comes amid a backdrop of Israeli strikes in Lebanon that have resulted in nearly 500 deaths and over 1,600 injuries across the country.

The ministry's statement urged consumers "not to rush for bread or flour, as the supply of wheat remains organized to ensure market stability." It assured that the Ministry of Economy "will continue to coordinate with relevant parties to ensure the regular and uninterrupted availability of these essential goods. More shipments will arrive shortly," it promised.

Near-total paralysis in the Baalbek region

According to our correspondent in the Bekaa Valley, endless queues have formed outside bakeries in the Baalbek-Hermel region, heavily bombarded by Israeli airstrikes. Residents are struggling to obtain bread from stores and supermarkets, most of which are closed. Restaurants, gas stations and pharmacies have also shut their doors, with our correspondent describing a "near-total paralysis" in the region.

Joe Salloum, president of the Order of Pharmacists, clarified in a statement on Monday that "medications for chronic diseases remain available in factories and company warehouses for about six months." "We are implementing a plan to ensure their delivery to all pharmacies and hospitals, even in the event of road closures," he added.

Monday marked the first day of what the Israeli military has termed Operation "Northern Arrows," during which it shelled southern Lebanon and the Bekaa Valley. A targeted strike also hit the southern suburbs of Beirut. Meanwhile, Hezbollah launched six strikes against northern Israel overnight, reaching Zikhron Yaakov, about 60 kilometers from the border.

Tens of thousands of residents left the south following yesterday's events. Many major roads became congested, with long lines forming at supermarkets and gas stations.