Israeli troops will control a large swathe of southern Lebanon as part of their campaign against Hezbollah, Defence Minister Israel Katz says. Katz stated that troops would establish a security zone up to the Litani River, roughly 30 kilometers from the Lebanon-Israel border, and that displaced residents would not be allowed back until northern Israel was safe. He mentioned that five bridges, deemed critical for Hezbollah's operational logistics, had been destroyed. The tensions escalated after Hezbollah launched rocket attacks in retaliation for the killing of Iran's supreme leader, amid ongoing Israeli operations in Lebanon despite a ceasefire agreement established in November 2024. Israeli officials aim to secure northern Israeli communities from ongoing threats while hundreds of thousands of Lebanese have been displaced amid the conflict, raising fears of a humanitarian crisis. Lebanon's government has asserted its intention to disarm Hezbollah, which has resisted calls to give up its arms, resulting in a complex and evolving military situation.
Israel Plans Expansion of Buffer Zone in Southern Lebanon Amid Rising Tensions
Israel Plans Expansion of Buffer Zone in Southern Lebanon Amid Rising Tensions
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz announces a military initiative to establish a secure zone up to the Litani River as part of intensified efforts against Hezbollah, following recent cross-border attacks.
In a significant escalation of military activity, Israel's Defense Minister Israel Katz has stated that Israeli troops will take control of a large buffer zone in southern Lebanon. This measure is aimed at countering the threats posed by Hezbollah, especially after a series of retaliatory rocket attacks into northern Israel. The newly established security zone will restrict displaced residents from returning until safety is assured for northern Israel, aiming to eliminate Hezbollah's operational bases by destroying infrastructure they utilize.
