Lebanese Turtle Conservationist Mona Khalil Killed in Israeli Airstrike

Lebanese marine conservationist Mona Khalil was killed when an Israeli airstrike struck her beachside home in southern Lebanon, and her Ethiopian housekeeper was injured. Al Jazeera reported that residents gathered in Beirut to mourn the loss of the 77-year-old sea-turtle advocate, holding vigils and recalling her decades-long work protecting nesting sites. The gatherings reflected the high regard in which she was held by local communities and environmental groups.

According to NPR, Khalil, a 76-year-old pioneer of sea-turtle protection, died from injuries sustained in the strike, while her housekeeper suffered wounds but survived. The report noted that the strike targeted her coastal residence, underscoring the broader impact of the conflict on civilians.