Netanyahu: Israeli Army Controls Strategic Areas in Southern Lebanon

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated on Tuesday that the Israeli army is conducting large-scale ground operations in southern Lebanon. Concurrently, the military has ordered residents of several Lebanese towns to evacuate to the north of the Al-Zahrani River.

At the start of a meeting of the Political-Security Cabinet, Netanyahu said, "Under my direction and that of the Defense Minister, and in coordination with the Chief of Staff, we are intensifying our operations in Lebanon."

He added, "The Israeli army is operating with substantial forces on the ground and controls strategic areas. We are strengthening the security belt to protect the northern towns."

The Prime Minister further noted, "At the same time, we are making significant efforts to develop innovative solutions against explosive drones."

These remarks followed the Israeli army's expansion of its ground operations in southern Lebanon beyond the so-called "yellow line," which is the delineation Israel established several kilometers inside Lebanese territory after the ceasefire agreement with Hezbollah on April 16.

Separately, the Israeli army instructed residents of several Lebanese towns and villages to relocate north of the Al-Zahrani River in anticipation of potential operations against Hezbollah.

In an official statement, the army issued an urgent warning to inhabitants of the following locations: Kharbet Silm, Bir Al-Sanasil, Qabriha, Majdal Silm, Qlayya, Kafr Dunin, Toulain, and Sawana. The statement read: "In light of Hezbollah's violation of the ceasefire agreement, the Israeli army is compelled to act forcefully against it. The Israeli army does not intend to harm you, and for your safety, you must immediately evacuate your homes and move north of the Al-Zahrani River."

The army added, "Anyone found near Hezbollah members, their facilities, or military equipment is endangering their life."

It also confirmed ongoing strikes targeting Hezbollah infrastructure in southern Lebanon and reported the elimination of individuals involved in planning attacks against Israeli forces, as well as strikes on infrastructure used to launch rockets.

Israeli air forces conducted raids on the towns of Kafratebniat, Yahmur Al-Shaqif, and Eastern Zoutar, as well as Arnon in southern Lebanon. Additionally, a new airstrike targeted Sahmar in the Western Bekaa region in eastern Lebanon.