Israeli military warns residents in southern Lebanon to leave as it expands operations
AP News • • general
Key Points:
- The Israeli military has ordered residents across southern Lebanon to evacuate as it intensifies operations against Hezbollah, marking the first such order since the April 17 ceasefire amid escalating conflict.
- Israeli forces have advanced beyond the Litani River toward Nabatiyeh, with increased fighting in towns like Zawtar al-Sharqieh, while avoiding strikes near Beirut since the truce began.
- Over one million Lebanese have been displaced and more than 3,200 killed in Israeli strikes since the war began on March 2, with many seeking shelter in schools and tents in Beirut.
- Hezbollah continues attacks on Israeli troops and border villages, prompting Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu to announce an expansion of military strikes, with over 550 targets hit recently, including areas near the Bekaa Valley and Qaraoun Dam.
- Hezbollah rejects Lebanon’s direct talks with Israel and supports Iran’s negotiations with Washington, demanding an end to the war and Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon.