Israel’s Defense Minister, Israel Katz, announced plans to occupy southern Lebanon up to the Litani River to establish a “defensive buffer.” This move signifies Israel’s intention to take control of a significant portion of Lebanon’s territory. Katz stated during a meeting with the military chief of staff that Israeli forces would extend their influence to the Litani River, which flows into the Mediterranean Sea about 30 kilometers north of Israel’s border.
Hezbollah, the Lebanese armed group, vowed to resist Israeli occupation in southern Lebanon, labeling it as a threat to Lebanon’s existence. Senior Hezbollah lawmaker Hassan Fadlallah emphasized that any Israeli encroachment beyond the Litani River would be met with opposition, citing the necessity to defend the land.
Israel has demolished five bridges over the Litani River and accelerated the destruction of homes in Lebanese villages near the border. These actions have been justified by Israel as part of a campaign against Hezbollah, rather than targeting civilians. However, under international law, attacks on civilian infrastructure, including homes and bridges, are generally prohibited.
The United Nations expressed concern over Katz’s statements, emphasizing the potential negative impact on the Lebanese population in the south. Global Affairs Canada strongly condemned Israel’s plan to occupy southern Lebanon, emphasizing the importance of respecting Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Katz reiterated that areas in southern Lebanon deemed as “terrorist” should not have any homes or residents. He likened the strategy to Israel’s approach in Gaza, where buildings near the border are cleared to create a defensive buffer zone and mitigate threats to communities.
Influential Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich proposed annexing southern Lebanon up to the Litani River. The ongoing conflict has displaced over a million individuals, with thousands still remaining in the affected areas. The Lebanon Health Ministry reported the death of a 15-year-old boy during an Israeli incursion into Halta town.
A woman in Israel was killed near the border with Lebanon due to missile fire, with two others injured. The situation remains volatile, with ongoing clashes resulting in casualties on both sides. An overnight strike southeast of Beirut claimed the lives of three individuals, including a three-year-old girl, further escalating tensions in the region.
Lebanon recently expelled the Iranian ambassador and several Iranian nationals, including diplomats. This move was followed by U.S. President Donald Trump suggesting a possible agreement between Washington and Tehran to end the conflict. The prospect of a ceasefire in Lebanon as part of a broader resolution remains uncertain amidst the escalating tensions.