Israeli Army Launches Extensive Military Operation in South Lebanon's Shqif Heights

The Israeli military announced the commencement of a large-scale operation in the Shqif Heights and the Wadi al-Salouqi region in southern Lebanon.

Israeli army spokesperson Avichay Adraee stated on X that the Northern Command has launched a command operation in the Shqif Heights (also known as Bofor) and Wadi al-Salouqi areas. The objective is to destroy Hezbollah’s infrastructure and eliminate its operatives, aiming to strengthen operational control in southern Lebanon and remove the immediate threat to the Galilee finger and the town of Metula.

He added that the operation began several days ago, involving a large ground force including the Golani Brigade, the 7th Brigade, the Givati Brigade, the Fire Brigade, and a multidimensional unit operating under the 36th Division’s command with intelligence guidance from the Military Intelligence Directorate. These forces are conducting offensive activities to expand the front defense line.

Adraee noted that Chief of Staff General Eyal Zamir approved the operation, which was preceded by organized combat readiness measures, including artillery preparations and operational arrangements to prepare the field under the Northern Command’s leadership. The operation focuses on establishing control over the Shqif Heights and Wadi al-Salouqi areas, intensifying targeted strikes against Hezbollah, and destroying central infrastructure established in the heights under Iranian direction, which Hezbollah has used to manage combat and carry out multiple plans.

He explained that the forces are acting against launch infrastructure in the area from which hundreds of attacks have been carried out against Israeli civilians and military forces operating in southern Lebanon.

Adraee indicated that Israeli forces have crossed the Litani River and expanded their attacks against Hezbollah to the north of the river, with operations currently extending to additional areas. Prior to the ground forces’ advance, the Israeli Air Force conducted intensive airstrikes on Hezbollah’s infrastructure in the region, supported by extensive artillery and tank fire. The forces also completed a series of significant strikes against controlling positions in the area, carried out clearing and neutralization operations against military installations in the Litani area, alongside essential engineering work to prepare suitable conditions for the offensive operation.

He added that operations are underway around Nabatieh, one of Hezbollah’s main power centers in southern Lebanon, and that the military is prepared and ready to expand the attack as necessary. This operation is part of dozens of other activities carried out by Israeli forces in recent weeks as part of ongoing targeted strikes against Hezbollah in southern Lebanon.

Meanwhile, the Israeli Broadcasting Corporation reported that the Israeli army has taken control of the Shqif Fortress in southern Lebanon.