Beirut, Lebanon – Web Desk: Israel has announced plans to target and destroy homes in Lebanese border villages, warning of devastation similar to Gaza, as Hezbollah launches around 5,000 drones and missile attacks against Israeli positions. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz declared that civilians displaced from southern Lebanon, numbering approximately 600,000, will not be allowed to return until northern Israel is secured.
Katz reiterated Israel’s plans to establish a buffer zone in southern Lebanon, aiming to maintain security control up to the Litani River after operations conclude. The zone will serve as a defensive line against anti-tank missiles, targeting Hezbollah fighters and dismantling their weaponry.
He emphasized that Israeli forces will eliminate Hezbollah’s elite Radwan fighters who have infiltrated southern territories. Residential areas near the border will face destruction similar to operations in Rafah and Beit Hanoun in Gaza to permanently remove threats near northern Israel.
Reports indicate that over 1.2 million people have been displaced, and more than 1,200 killed since Israeli strikes began on March 2. The Lebanese Ministry of Health confirmed 1,247 deaths, including 124 children and 52 medical personnel. Over 400 Hezbollah fighters were also killed, along with 10 Israeli soldiers.
The Litani River, roughly 30 km north of Israel’s border, marks an area that represents about 10% of Lebanon’s territory. Israeli forces earlier issued evacuation orders in Hezbollah-controlled zones, including southern Beirut and parts of eastern Lebanon.
