Jerusalem (Horn post) Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced plans to expand the security buffer zone in southern Lebanon, citing growing threats from the Iran-backed Hezbollah group.
In a statement posted on the social media platform X, Netanyahu said the expansion would create a “larger defensive area” aimed at preventing potential ground incursions into Israel by Hezbollah.
The move comes amid escalating tensions along the Israel-Lebanon border, where Israeli forces have intensified military operations in recent days.
According to the Israel Defense Forces, several bridges over the Litani River — located roughly 30 kilometers from the Israeli border — have been destroyed as part of ongoing operations. Israeli officials say the infrastructure was being used by Hezbollah to transport fighters and weapons.
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said the targeted bridges served as key routes for what he described as “terrorist movement and arms transfers.”
Katz also stated that thousands of displaced Lebanese civilians would not be allowed to return to areas south of the Litani River until the security of residents in northern Israel is fully guaranteed.
The expansion of the security zone signals a further escalation in Israel’s military posture in southern Lebanon, raising concerns about a broader conflict in the region as cross-border hostilities continue.
Analysts warn that the strategy could deepen tensions with Hezbollah and increase the risk of prolonged instability along the volatile frontier.
Prepared by:
Horn post staff
