Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered an expansion of military operations in southern Lebanon, citing continued rocket fire from Hezbollah. The move marks a new phase in ongoing tensions along the northern border.
In a video statement, Netanyahu said the Israeli military has been instructed to widen its current security zone in Lebanon. He said the aim is to reduce threats and prevent further attacks. According to officials, the expansion is part of efforts to push missile activity away from Israeli territory.
Earlier, Israel had already announced plans to extend a buffer zone reaching toward the Litani River in southern Lebanon. However, it remains unclear whether the latest order refers to that same zone or includes additional areas. Authorities have not shared detailed operational plans.
Israel’s Defence Minister, Israel Katz, previously stated that forces would maintain control over key locations, including bridges and routes leading to the Litani River. This river lies about 30 kilometers north of Israel’s border and is considered strategically important.
The situation in Lebanon has led to significant casualties. According to the Lebanese health ministry, more than 1,100 people have been killed due to Israeli strikes and ground operations. The reported deaths include women, children, and medical workers. The figures do not separate civilians from combatants.
On the Israeli side, the military confirmed that four soldiers have been killed during fighting in southern Lebanon. The clashes have intensified in recent weeks, raising concerns about a wider conflict.
Netanyahu stated that the expanded operations are necessary to improve security along Israel’s northern frontier. He claimed that a major portion of the missile threat has already been reduced. However, he acknowledged that Hezbollah still has the ability to launch rockets.
He added that Israel is determined to change the situation in the north. Officials say the broader strategy also involves actions against groups linked to Iran, including Hezbollah and Hamas in Gaza.
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The developments highlight rising regional tensions and the risk of further escalation in the coming days.
