Occupied Jerusalem (Monitoring Desk) – Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered the Israeli military to capture more areas in southern Lebanon under the pretext of expanding a security zone.
According to a British broadcasting outlet, Netanyahu stated that the security zone established in southern Lebanon is being expanded to prevent infiltration threats from Hezbollah and to push anti-tank missile attacks away from the border.
During a visit to the headquarters of the Israeli army’s (IDF) Northern Command, he defended the move but did not clarify whether the expansion would remain limited to the existing zone or extend to additional areas.
Earlier, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz had indicated that the zone could be expanded up to the Litani River, and that Lebanese civilians would not be allowed to return to their homes until the threat from Hezbollah is eliminated. This statement reflects Israel’s potential expansionist intentions, which could result in control over large parts of Lebanon.
The situation recalls the past when Israel occupied parts of southern Lebanon from 1985 to 2000.
Meanwhile, clashes between Israeli forces and Hezbollah fighters continue in the region. According to the Israeli military, several Hezbollah members have been killed in recent operations, while the death of another Israeli soldier has also been confirmed, bringing the number of soldiers killed after the latest advance to five.
It is noteworthy that Israel is increasing its presence in southern Lebanon under the guise of a security zone.
