Israel’s Defense Minister ordered the military to expedite demolitions of homes in Lebanese border villages and destroy bridges over the Litani River on Sunday.
Israel Intensifies Operations in Lebanon
Israel’s Defense Minister Israel Katz announced Sunday, in coordination with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, a directive to accelerate the demolition of homes in Lebanese “villages along the front line.” The Times of Israel reports these actions aim to eliminate threats to Israeli communities.
The order includes the destruction of all bridges over the Litani River in southern Lebanon, which Katz stated were used for “terrorist activity,” according to a statement from the Defense Ministry’s office.
Hezbollah Casualties and Hamas Operative Killed
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reported on Saturday that nine Hezbollah fighters were killed in clashes in southern Lebanon. IDF stated the fighters were detected approaching Israeli soldiers.
Israeli media cited the military and Shin Bet, Israel’s internal security agency, reporting that Walid Mohammad Dib, a senior Hamas financier, was killed in an Israeli strike in Lebanon last week.
Hamas Financier’s Role in Regional Operations
The IDF and Shin Bet believe Dib was responsible for transferring funds to various Hamas departments in Lebanon, the West Bank, and other locations, as well as “recruiting agents and directing terrorist activity from Syria and Lebanon.”
Escalation of Conflict with Iran and Hezbollah
Israel has been engaged in conflict with Iran since February 28th, with pro-Iranian Hezbollah launching attacks on Israel in early March. Israel responded with extensive airstrikes across Lebanon, aiming for the complete destruction of Hezbollah.
The Lebanese government banned Hezbollah from armed activity in March, but the organization refused to disarm.
Rising Death Toll in Lebanon
Lebanon’s Health Ministry reported on Thursday that over 1,000 people have been killed in Israel’s aggression against Lebanon. (PAP)
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