The Israeli military released a map Sunday detailing areas under its control in southern Lebanon, encompassing dozens of largely abandoned villages.
Israel Reveals Extent of Lebanese Occupation
The Israeli military published a map of territory it occupies in southern Lebanon for the first time on Sunday, revealing control over dozens of mostly deserted villages.
According to Reuters, the occupied territory stretches east to west, penetrating 5-10 km into Lebanese territory.
Buffer Zone Plans and Destruction of Villages
Israeli authorities have announced plans to establish a buffer zone in the area. Lebanese villages within this zone have been destroyed, the Israeli army claims, to protect northern Israel from attacks by the pro-Iranian Hezbollah organization.
Military Operations Against Hezbollah
“Five divisions and the Israeli Navy are operating simultaneously south of the forward defense line in southern Lebanon to eliminate terrorist infrastructure belonging to Hezbollah and prevent direct threats to the population in northern Israel,” the Israeli military stated.
Return of Displaced Civilians Uncertain
The military declined to answer questions regarding whether civilians displaced by Israeli attacks would be allowed to return to their homes.
Access Restrictions and Demolitions Announced
A source in Lebanese security services reported that Lebanese civilians have access to some villages along the line demarcated by Israel, separating the north of the country from the buffer zone, but soldiers continue to prevent access to most villages within the zone itself.
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz stated Sunday that homes used by Hezbollah on the border would be demolished, and “any structures threatening our soldiers and any roads suspected of containing explosive devices must be immediately destroyed.”
Existing Buffer Zones and Casualties
Israel has also established buffer zones in Syria and the Gaza Strip, where Israeli forces control over half of the territory.
A ceasefire began overnight from Thursday to Friday, ending weeks of Israeli attacks on Lebanon and Hezbollah. The Lebanese Health Ministry reported 2,294 deaths in Israeli attacks on Lebanon. The Israeli army reported killing approximately 1,700 Hezbollah fighters. (PAP)
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