Israeli army launches ground ops in southern Lebanon
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- Israeli army launched limited and targeted ground operations in southern Lebanon, focusing on Hezbollah strongholds around the town of Khiam.
- Al Jazeera Arabic reported at least three air strikes on Khiam and additional raids on Yater, Burj Qalawiya, Sultaniya, Chaqra, Qantara, and as‑Sawana.
- IDF 91st division troops began operations to enhance the forward defence area, aiming to destroy terrorist infrastructure and eliminate terrorists.
- Israel Katz said the ground operation is intended to eliminate threats and protect residents of the Galilee and northern Israel, and that evacuated Shiite residents will not return until security is guaranteed.
- Lebanese authorities announced that more than 1,000,000 people, including women and children, have fled their homes after evacuation orders for many neighborhoods in southern Lebanon and Beirut.
- Israeli attacks have killed at least 850 people, including 107 children and 66 women.
- Khiam is a high‑ground stronghold that commands a view over northern Israel and sits at a key road junction linking to the Bekaa Valley.
Why it matters: The operation gives Israeli northern residents a security claim while forcing over a million Lebanese civilians to flee and raising the death toll, intensifying the humanitarian crisis and limiting any immediate diplomatic resolution. It also seeks to destroy Hezbollah's infrastructure, but the mass displacement and high civilian casualties could fuel further resentment and undermine regional stability.
