In addition, some 235 civilians were wounded, including women and children.

At least 28 civilians were also wounded in the fighting.

It said "many civilians were killed or wounded, including women and children."

Four civilians were wounded in west Beirut, the police said.

In a statement it said 12 soldiers and 3 civilians had been wounded.

The Saudi government said civilians had been wounded in the attack.

Additionally, two civilians had been killed and four more were wounded.

Three police officers and five civilians were also wounded in the attack, witnesses said.

General de Villa said eight soldiers and two civilians were wounded.

The army press office said 40 rebels, 37 civilians and at least 55 soldiers had been wounded.