In brief
Israel's Defense Minister Israel Katz has confirmed plans for the establishment of a security buffer zone in southern Lebanon, continuing control over the region even after the ongoing war with Hezbollah. The area, reaching as far as the Litani River, will enforce demolitions of nearby homes, prohibiting the return of displaced residents until safety conditions in northern Israel are secured. The conflict has resulted in a tragic loss of life and exacerbated humanitarian concerns in Lebanon, where over a million residents are now displaced.
Israel's defence minister has announced plans to establish a buffer zone in southern Lebanon, asserting that Israel will retain security control over the region even after the current war with Hezbollah ends. Israel Katz revealed that the area to be controlled will extend to the Litani River, approximately 30km from the Israeli border, and all homes in villages close to the border will be demolished. Since the onset of hostilities earlier this month, Israel has sent ground troops into southern Lebanon and conducted extensive airstrikes in response to Hezbollah's rocket attacks targeting northern Israel.The escalation followed Israel's controversial assassination of Iran's supreme leader, leading to significant casualties on both sides, with thousands killed, including civilians and journalists. The conflict has led to over a million people being displaced within Lebanon, marking a severe humanitarian crisis.Katz emphasized that the intention behind these measures is to protect communities in northern Israel from potential Hezbollah threats, with the IDF committed to remaining in southern Lebanon until the safety of northern residents is guaranteed. This stance comes amid accusations from Lebanon's president, Joseph Aoun, describing the Israeli actions as collective punishment and potentially aimed at expanding territorial control.
