INVC NEWS
Beirut/Tel Aviv – The Israeli military has confirmed plans to initiate a large-scale operation targeting the southern coastal regions of Lebanon. Amid growing hostilities with Hezbollah, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have issued a formal warning to residents along Lebanon’s Mediterranean coastline, advising them to avoid the beaches and coastal areas for their safety.
This announcement marks a significant escalation in the conflict, as Israel aims to tighten its control over strategic locations. Fishermen have been cautioned not to venture within a 60-kilometer radius of the Mediterranean waters adjacent to Lebanon, as military operations are expected to intensify.
120 Hezbollah Targets Hit in Southern Lebanon
On Monday, Israeli forces launched a devastating series of airstrikes on southern Lebanon, striking over 120 Hezbollah targets in under an hour. This swift and coordinated attack left significant damage, with the Lebanese Ministry of Health reporting that at least 10 firefighters were killed in the air raids, while several other civilians remain trapped under the rubble. Rescue efforts are ongoing, but the devastation has severely hampered efforts to save those still buried beneath the debris.
The targeted areas are believed to house Hezbollah’s military infrastructure, including weapon depots, training camps, and command centers. The IDF’s objective, as stated by military spokespersons, is to neutralize Hezbollah’s ability to launch attacks on Israeli territories.
Ground Operations Continue in Southern Lebanon
Alongside the aerial bombardments, Israeli ground forces have been conducting operations in southern Lebanon, aimed at dismantling Hezbollah’s defensive positions. This ongoing ground offensive has resulted in casualties on both sides. On Monday, two Israeli soldiers were killed during the fighting, bringing the total number of Israeli soldiers lost during the ground operations to 11. The IDF, however, maintains that significant progress has been made in weakening Hezbollah’s foothold in the region.
Meanwhile, Hezbollah has continued its counter-attacks, launching 190 rockets into Israeli territory on Monday alone. These rocket attacks resulted in at least 9 Israeli civilians being injured and caused substantial damage to infrastructure, including highways and residential areas. Israeli authorities have reported that basic services in affected areas have been disrupted, leaving many without power and water.