Israel signals long-term presence in southern Lebanon

Israel plans to extend its military presence in southern Lebanon to the Litani River – the clearest indication yet that it intends to establish a buffer zone inside Lebanese territory.

Defence Minister Israel Katz said the aim is to create a buffer against Hezbollah, which Israel accuses of carrying out regular attacks on its territory. The move comes as Israeli forces continue to destroy infrastructure in southern Lebanon, including bridges and residential buildings – drawing criticism from the United Nations.

According to Lebanese authorities, the fighting has killed more than 1,000 people and displaced over one million.

Katz indicated that the area could remain under Israeli military control for an extended period, comparing the approach to tactics used in Gaza.

Lebanon was drawn into the conflict on 2 March, when Hezbollah fired rockets into Israel following the killing of Iran’s supreme leader Ali Khamenei. The Lebanese government has called for de-escalation and for Hezbollah to act with restraint.

(reuters, pir)