Israel Expands Its Operations in Southern Lebanon.. and Identifies Targets

SadaNews - The Israeli occupation army announced on Sunday the launch of extensive military operations in new areas in southern Lebanon, aimed at targeting the infrastructure of Hezbollah and its armed elements.

The army stated that forces from the Golani Brigade, the 7th Brigade, and the Givati Brigade are participating in the operations under the command of the 36th Division, noting that the military activity includes the heights of Shuqif (Buffort) and the Sulukki Valley area.

This step follows Israeli warnings for residents of several southern villages to evacuate, and comes after a security meeting chaired by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to discuss a response to recent escalation by Hezbollah.

According to a statement from the Israeli army: "The operation focuses on establishing operational control over the Buffort heights and the Sulukki Valley area, in addition to weakening Hezbollah and dismantling the infrastructure set up on these heights under Iranian guidance."

It added: "From the Buffort heights, Hezbollah has directed military operations and combat actions and has carried out numerous attacks. Additionally, Israeli army soldiers are conducting operations against rocket launch pads in the area, from which hundreds of projectiles have been fired at Israeli civilians and soldiers."

The statement continued: "The Israeli army has crossed the Litani River and expanded its operations against Hezbollah targets north of the river. The operation is currently expanding to include additional areas."

It mentioned: "Before the entry of Israeli soldiers, the air force conducted intensive airstrikes on Hezbollah's infrastructure in the region, as part of a large-scale fire support operation that also included artillery and tank fire. The Israeli army also carried out a series of significant airstrikes on strategic sites, conducted searches and neutralized military infrastructure in the Litani area, and carried out essential engineering works to prepare the necessary conditions for the offensive operation."

The statement concluded: "The Israeli army is operating near Nabatieh, a significant stronghold for Hezbollah in southern Lebanon, and is on high alert to expand the attack as necessary. This operation joins dozens of other operations conducted by Israeli soldiers in recent weeks as part of the ongoing campaign against Hezbollah in southern Lebanon."