The families of Baalbeck Civil Defense members killed by Israeli bombings on this part of the Bekaa during clashes with Hezbollah organized a sit-in in the city to "honor their sacrifices and heroism," reported L'Orient Today's correspondent.

The families of the deceased, along with several officials from the Baalbeck municipality, gathered at Khalil Moutran Square. Ibrahim Salah, a relative of one of the killed rescuers, delivered a speech highlighting the "martyrdom of the Civil Defense members who lived up to their mission" by risking their lives.

"This is why they should be congratulated and the great city of Baalbeck should be celebrated for its great martyrs," he added.

Lara Salah, the wife of a rescuer, called the gathering as a tribute "to the blood of the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for all of Lebanon." Fatima Sharafeddine, the wife of another rescuer, gave a similar speech and wished "patience and comfort to the families of the martyrs."

The Israeli bombings in Lebanon resulted in over 4,000 deaths, according to an almost final tally since the clashes between Israel and Hezbollah began on Oct. 8, 2023, which initially were sporadic before escalating into almost total war by September. The majority of these victims were killed during this latter period, which ended with the cease-fire that went into effect on Nov. 27. Searches continue in certain areas to unearth the bodies. The Civil Defense paid a heavy toll in this war, as the Israeli state repeatedly bombed rescue operations or facilities and buildings used by them.