The Israeli military has announced the launch of “limited and targeted ground operations” in southern Lebanon as fighting with Hezbollah intensifies near the strategic town of Khiam.
According to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), troops from its 91st Division have begun operations aimed at destroying militant infrastructure and targeting Hezbollah fighters in the region. The offensive forms part of Israel’s broader strategy to establish a forward defense zone along its northern border.
Several air strikes were reported around Khiam on Monday, while additional Israeli raids targeted nearby towns including Yater, Burj Qalawiya, Sultaniya, Chaqra, Qantara and as-Sawana in southern Lebanon. There were no immediate reports of casualties from those strikes.
Khiam holds significant strategic importance because it sits on elevated ground just a few kilometres from the Israeli border and the Litani River, allowing commanding views over northern Israel and surrounding Lebanese territory. Control of the area is also crucial because key roads from the town connect to other regions of southern Lebanon and the Bekaa Valley, where Hezbollah maintains strong influence.
The latest escalation follows a widening regional conflict that erupted after the killing of Ali Khamenei, Iran’s supreme leader. Hezbollah launched rockets at Israel in response, marking its first major attack since a 2024 ceasefire that had largely held despite repeated tensions along the border.
Military analysts say Israel’s operations aim to disrupt Hezbollah’s supply routes and prevent fighters and weapons from moving south of the Litani River, a key area under previous ceasefire arrangements.
The fighting has triggered a major humanitarian crisis. More than 800,000 people have been displaced from their homes after evacuation orders were issued across large parts of southern Lebanon and areas of the capital, Beirut.
Lebanese officials say Israeli attacks have so far killed at least 850 people, including 107 children and 66 women, as the conflict continues to expand across the region.