Israel announced plans Tuesday to establish a “security zone” within southern Lebanon, including control of key infrastructure, amid escalating tensions with Hezbollah.
Israel to Establish Security Zone in Southern Lebanon
Israel will create a “security zone” within Lebanese territory, according to Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz. The zone will encompass areas south of the Litani River.
The Israeli military will control all bridges over the Litani River, having already destroyed those used by Hezbollah for transporting fighters and weapons. IDF control will extend to the security zone up to the river.
IDF Operations and Displacement of Civilians
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) will continue operations against Hezbollah in Lebanon. Hundreds of thousands of southern Lebanese residents who have evacuated will not return south of the Litani River until the security of northern Israel is guaranteed, Katz stated.
Katz emphasized a firm policy: “Where there is terror and rockets, there will be no homes or residents, and there will be IDF.”
Hezbollah Response and Lebanese Condemnation
Hezbollah has vowed to fight against the creation of a buffer zone, deeming it an “existential threat” to Lebanon. A Hezbollah parliament member, Hasan Fadlallah, stated the organization expects to be able to fight for Lebanon.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun condemned Israeli attacks on bridges and infrastructure, characterizing them as a “prelude to a land invasion.” He expressed concern that Israel intends to create a buffer zone.
Hezbollah Joins Conflict, Lebanon Bans Militias
Hezbollah has joined Iran in the conflict with the US and Israel, expanding the conflict to Lebanon. In response, the Lebanese government has banned all military actions by the pro-Iranian organization outside of legitimate state institutions.
Prime Minister Nawaf Salam affirmed that decisions regarding war and peace rest solely with the Lebanese authorities. The Lebanese judiciary has intensified its pursuit of illegal weapons, including those held by Hezbollah members.
Arrests and Weapons Seizures
A Lebanese court ordered the arrest of two Hezbollah members found in possession of a weapons cache, including 21 Grad rockets, eight machine guns, and 3,000 rounds of ammunition.
