American killed in Lebanon amid Israeli invasion

The White House confirmed Wednesday the death of American citizen Kamel Ahmad Jawad in Lebanon, calling it a “tragedy” amidst Israel’s ongoing military attack in the country.

In a statement to Anadolu Agency, a National Security Council spokesperson expressed condolences, saying, “We are deeply saddened by the death of Kamel Ahmad Jawad, and our hearts go out to his family and friends. His death is a tragedy, as are the deaths of many civilians in Lebanon.”

Jawad, a resident of Dearborn, Michigan, was reportedly killed in an Israeli airstrike while assisting those affected by the conflict in Nabatieh, Lebanon.

His daughter, Nadine Jawad, shared a heartfelt tribute on social media, revealing that her father had remained near a hospital in his hometown to aid the elderly, disabled, and financially vulnerable residents during Israel’s intensified air campaign.

In her statement, Nadine praised her father’s dedication to helping others, explaining that in his final days, he provided essential supplies and assistance to those in need.

"We are honored by my father's sacrifice," she wrote. "In his last days, he chose to stay near the main hospital in Nabatieh to help the elderly, disabled, injured, and those who simply couldn't financially afford to leave."

While Kamel Ahmad Jawad’s story resonates with many due to his American citizenship, Nadine was quick to point out that his death was one of many.

“His life is one of over 50,000 lives lost at the hands of Israeli aggression across the Middle East,” she added.

The Islamic Center of America, located in the Detroit suburb of Dearborn, will hold Jawad’s funeral service on Sunday.

Dearborn is home to a large Arab American community, many of whom have expressed grief and solidarity following the news of his passing.

Local organizations, friends, and even US Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib, who represents Dearborn, have been in contact with the family.

The confirmation of Jawad’s death comes amid Israel’s ground invasion of Lebanon, which follows weeks of intense airstrikes.

Since September 23, Israeli forces have been targeting Hezbollah strongholds in Lebanon, claiming the invasion is aimed at preventing strikes from the Iran-backed group.

Lebanese officials report that the air raid has killed over 1,000 civilians, including women and children, and wounded nearly 3,000 others.

A significant number of displaced persons, now totaling more than a million, have fled the country.

While Israel makes claims that its military onslaught is focused on neutralizing Hezbollah, a large portion of the casualties includes civilians, leading to increasing international concern.

The White House, although offering condolences for Jawad’s death, has faced mounting criticism for its continued support of Israel during the conflict, particularly in Arab-American communities like Dearborn.

In recent days, the invasion has escalated, with fierce clashes reported between Israeli forces and Hezbollah fighters near Lebanon’s southern border.

On Wednesday, eight Israeli soldiers were killed during combat, according to reports.

Israel’s military presence in Lebanon continues to grow, raising fears of a broader regional conflict.

The war, which initially began with Israel’s retaliation against Hamas in Gaza, has now expanded into Lebanon, significantly impacting the region.

As tensions rise, international calls for ceasefire and peace negotiations have been largely overshadowed by the continuing violence by Israel.