Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced this Sunday (29) the expansion of the so-called “security zone” in southern Lebanon, amid the intensification of military operations in the region. The measure, according to him, seeks to ward off threats to Israeli borders and contain missile attacks.
In a statement published on social media, Netanyahu stated that the decision aims to “push missile firing away from our borders” and change the security scenario in the north of the country. The prime minister did not detail the scope of the expansion or the territorial limits of the area.
The initiative follows previous orders to expand the Israeli Army’s operations in southern Lebanon, announced on the 12th. On the same occasion, Defense Minister Israel Katz indicated the possibility of occupying areas of the territory if the Lebanese government is unable to contain Hezbollah’s actions.
Operations have focused on infrastructure attributed to the Shiite group, supported by Iran. Israel has also targeted bridges and other logistical structures, in moves that could hinder the return of displaced civilians and prolong the military presence in the region.
The clashes continue to escalate. Between Friday and Saturday, the Israeli Army recorded the death of one soldier and nine injuries in fighting with Hezbollah. Since the recent intensification of clashes, at least four Israeli soldiers have died.
In Lebanon, the humanitarian impact is growing. According to the local government, 51 health professionals have been killed since the most intense resumption of hostilities. The total death toll in the country now exceeds 1,100, including victims in Beirut, while more than 1 million people have been displaced, around a fifth of the Lebanese population.
Continues after advertising
