Israel Reinforces Forces in Southern Lebanon Amid Escalating Offensive

(MENAFN) The Israeli military deploys another division to southern Lebanon on Tuesday, stepping up its ground offensive in the region, according to reports.

In an official statement, the army says the 98th Division joins the 91st, 36th, 146th, and 162nd divisions “as part of expanding ground operations,” alongside continued artillery fire and airstrikes targeting locations across southern Lebanon.

The military explains that the newly deployed forces are working to “reinforce the front defensive line and remove threats to northern residents,” though it does not clarify how far troops have advanced inside Lebanese territory.

Reports indicate that the objective of the move is to push Hezbollah fighters north of the Litani River and dismantle sites and structures in border villages that Israel claims are used for military purposes.

According to reports, operations in southern Lebanon are considered more difficult than those in Gaza due to the challenging terrain.

Further reports suggest the army is preparing to present a plan to political leaders that involves maintaining control over frontline villages while continuing military operations even after the conflict with Iran concludes.

Israel has continued airstrikes and ground actions in southern Lebanon since a cross-border attack by Hezbollah on March 2, despite a ceasefire that came into effect in November 2024.

Lebanese officials say that at least 1,497 people have been killed and 4,639 others injured as a result of the Israeli attacks.

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