Smotrich: The Litani River Should Be the Border Between Us and Lebanon

SadaNews - Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich made controversial statements calling for the Litani River to be the dividing line between Israel and Lebanon. He explained that Israel should deal with Lebanon as it did with Gaza, stating: "Just as we control 55% of Gaza, we must do the same in Lebanon."

In a move that reflects a significant escalation in military operations, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz announced yesterday, Sunday, directing the army to destroy all bridges over the Litani River to prevent Hezbollah elements from crossing, while hinting at applying the "Rafah model" in southern Lebanon.

The Litani River, considered one of the most important rivers in Lebanon, extends approximately 170 kilometers from the Beqaa Valley to the Mediterranean Sea. It is a major source of water, irrigation, and hydroelectric energy in the country, and serves as a vital artery for agriculture and the local economy. Its strategic importance has made it a constant focal point in regional conflicts, especially with Israel, which has always shown interest in its waters.