Israel’s military to occupy swathe of southern Lebanon amid widening war

Amidst escalating conflict, Israel intends to occupy a portion of southern Lebanon up to the Litani River, establishing what Defence Minister Israel Katz calls a "security zone." This area constitutes approximately one-tenth of Lebanon. Katz announced the plan at a meeting with the military chief of staff. Hezbollah, the Iran-backed Lebanese group, views this potential occupation as an "existential threat" and has vowed to resist any Israeli troop presence south of the Litani. The group stated that they will confront what they see as aggression and defend their land. Katz previously warned Lebanon that failure to disarm Hezbollah could result in territorial losses.

Israeli forces struck the Qasmiyeh bridge in southern Lebanon on Sunday, a key route connecting the south to central Lebanon. This action follows a statement by Israel's defense minister that Israeli forces were instructed to destroy crossings over the Litani river used by Hezbollah for reinforcements. The strikes have raised concerns among Lebanese citizens that Israel intends to isolate southern Lebanon, potentially hindering the return of displaced families. The ongoing conflict has already displaced over a million people, raising fears of a humanitarian crisis. The BBC is reporting on the situation from Lebanon.

Amidst the ongoing US-Israel war on Iran, a Hezbollah attack on Sunday killed at least one person in northern Israel, marking the first such death from Lebanese fire since the conflict began. Hezbollah claimed responsibility, stating they targeted Israeli soldiers in Misgav Am with rockets. This attack occurred as Israel increased its troop presence in southern Lebanon, where the conflict has resulted in over 1,000 deaths and displaced a million people. In response, the Israeli Defence Minister ordered the military to expedite the demolition of Lebanese homes and bridges in southern Lebanon, citing the need to eliminate threats to Israel. The escalating conflict was triggered by a Hezbollah cross-border attack on March 2, following the start of the US-Israel war on Iran.

According to sources, Donald Trump approved a joint US-Israeli operation against Iran after a phone call with Benjamin Netanyahu. Netanyahu reportedly urged Trump to authorize a "decapitation strike" targeting Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and his key lieutenants, who were believed to be meeting in Tehran. Netanyahu argued this was a unique opportunity to eliminate Khamenei and retaliate for alleged Iranian plots to assassinate Trump, including a 2024 murder-for-hire scheme. The intelligence suggesting the meeting had been moved forward prompted Netanyahu to push for the strike, despite Trump's previous opposition to such military interventions. The operation was approved less than 48 hours before its commencement.

In March 2026, Iranian missiles struck the Israeli towns of Arad and Dimona, near a nuclear research center, wounding at least 180 people. Iran stated the attack was retaliation for an Israeli strike on its Natanz nuclear facility. The incident marks a potentially more lethal phase in the ongoing Israeli-United States war on Iran, which began on February 28 and has already injured thousands in Israel. Analysts suggest the attack raises questions about whether Israel has underestimated Iran's military capabilities, particularly its extensive and varied missile program. Iran's missile arsenal includes short, medium, and long-range ballistic and cruise missiles.

On March 17, 2026, the Israeli military initiated air raids and "limited and targeted ground operations" against Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon. These actions followed escalating clashes in the region. The Israeli military's operations are focused on Hezbollah positions. The town of Marjayoun has become an active war zone as a result of the ongoing conflict. Al Jazeera's Zeina Khodr is reporting from Marjayoun, providing on-the-ground coverage of the situation.

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) issued a death threat against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, according to statements published by Iranian news agencies on Sunday. The threat comes amid ongoing hostilities between Iran, Israel, and the United States, which escalated after a joint US-Israeli offensive against Iran began on February 28. Iran has retaliated with attacks against Israel and US-allied Gulf states. Despite the tensions, Iran's top diplomat stated that the country is open to proposals that would lead to a complete end to the US-Israel war on Iran.

Tensions between Israel and Iran have escalated, marked by increased attacks on both sides. Israel intensified its military actions in Lebanon, conducting deadly strikes in Beirut and other cities targeting Hezbollah militants. This escalation follows the killing of an Iranian leader. In response, Iran launched missile strikes into Israel, near Tel Aviv, resulting in two fatalities. The exchange of attacks highlights a significant increase in direct confrontation between Israel and Iran, raising concerns about regional stability. The attacks occurred recently, with Israel's actions focused on Lebanon and Iran's strikes reaching into Israeli territory.

The US-Israeli war against Iran, ongoing for three weeks, is currently characterized by mixed messages and uncertainty. Despite President Trump's claims that the war is "very complete" and "winding down," the US is deploying additional ground forces and continuing airstrikes on Iranian targets. While Trump insists opening the Strait of Hormuz is a "simple military maneuver," only Iranian-approved ships are passing through. Trump threatened to target Iranian power plants if Hormuz isn't fully opened within 48 hours. His stated objectives for the war include degrading Iran's military, defense infrastructure, and nuclear program, as well as protecting US allies. Notably absent from his objectives is securing the Strait of Hormuz, which he believes should be the responsibility of other nations. Also absent are previous demands for Iranian regime change or "unconditional surrender."

In a press conference on March 20, 2026, Benjamin Netanyahu addressed both Israeli citizens and international media regarding the ongoing war with Iran. Netanyahu stated that substantial advancements had been achieved in the first 20 days of the conflict. While acknowledging these gains, he also suggested that further military action is anticipated. Al Jazeera's Rob McBride analyzed Netanyahu's statements, highlighting the Prime Minister's assertion that a "ground component" is necessary for the war effort. The purpose of the address was to update the public and international community on the progress and future direction of the war.

In March 2026, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Iran no longer possesses the ability to enrich uranium or manufacture ballistic missiles. The statement was made nearly three weeks into the US-Israeli war. Netanyahu also claimed that Israel is actively working to create divisions within Iran's leadership. The context of the statement is the ongoing US-Israeli war, although the specific reasons for making the claim at this time were not detailed in the article. The location of these alleged actions and capabilities is within Iran.

Since March 2nd, Israeli bombings in south Lebanon have allegedly targeted medical facilities and personnel, according to Lebanese healthcare workers and officials. They report at least 128 strikes on medical sites and ambulances, resulting in 40 deaths and 107 injuries among healthcare workers. The attacks, occurring amidst the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, include alleged double-tap strikes. Medical workers and facilities are protected under international law, and deliberately targeting them could constitute a war crime. The Israeli military has accused Hezbollah of using ambulances for military purposes, a claim the Lebanese Ministry of Health denies. The majority of attacks have been against the Islamic Health Association (IHA), a health service affiliated with Hezbollah.

Since March 2, over 1,000 people in Lebanon, including 40 healthcare workers, have been killed in intensified Israeli attacks, according to the Lebanese Ministry of Health. The attacks, which have also wounded over 2,500, followed rocket launches by Hezbollah into northern Israel after the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The Israeli bombardment, targeting Hezbollah, has displaced over one million people and included residential buildings and infrastructure. Hezbollah has responded with rocket fire into Israel and ground engagements. The UN human rights chief's office has stated that some Israeli attacks may constitute war crimes, emphasizing the need to distinguish between military and civilian targets.

The UN human rights office stated on March 17, 2026, that Israeli attacks on Lebanon, including strikes on residential buildings and healthcare facilities, may constitute war crimes. This statement follows intensified Israeli air strikes and ground operations in Lebanon as part of the wider Middle East conflict. According to the UN, hundreds of buildings have been destroyed, and displaced civilians and healthcare workers have been killed in the attacks. The UN spokesperson emphasized that international law requires distinction between military and civilian targets and protects healthcare workers and vulnerable populations. Since March 2, Israeli attacks have reportedly killed at least 912 people, including 111 children, and wounded 2,221. The intensified strikes began after Hezbollah launched rockets into northern Israel following the assassination of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.

Tensions escalated between Israel and Hezbollah as Hezbollah launched a barrage of rockets and drones at northern Israel on Wednesday night, injuring two. The attack, coordinated with Iranian missiles, marked the most intense assault by Hezbollah in the recent conflict. Israel responded with heavy bombardments of Beirut's southern suburbs and southern Lebanon, resulting in casualties and significant damage, including a strike in central Beirut that killed at least seven. The coordinated attack by Hezbollah and Iran, targeting over 50 locations in Israel, is a major escalation in the ongoing conflict, making Lebanon the most intense site of fighting in the region. The fighting is part of a larger war in Iran launched by Israel and the US two weeks prior.

An Israeli strike on a health center in the village of Burj Qalaouiyah, southern Lebanon, killed 12 medical workers on Friday, according to the Lebanese Ministry of Public Health. The deceased included doctors, paramedics, and nurses who were on duty. This attack follows another Israeli strike hours earlier on the village of Souaneh, which killed two paramedics and wounded five. The Lebanese Health Ministry condemned the attacks, reporting that 18 paramedics have been killed in Lebanon since fighting reignited on March 2, following a US-Israeli assault on Iran that began on February 28. Hezbollah claimed responsibility for firing suicide drones against Israeli troops in northern Israel.

Fighting between Israel and Hezbollah has intensified, drawing Lebanon further into the Middle East conflict. Over the past week, nearly 700,000 people in Lebanon have been displaced due to escalating hostilities. As of Monday, Lebanese authorities report nearly 500 deaths in Lebanon from the Israeli offensive, with the death toll rising daily. Israel has targeted Hezbollah-controlled areas, including Beirut's southern suburbs and financial institutions allegedly run by the group. In response, Hezbollah has fired missiles into Israel, reaching as far as Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, triggering air raid sirens and interception blasts. The conflict was ignited after Hezbollah opened fire to avenge the killing of Iran’s supreme leader, prompting the Israeli offensive.

The article discusses the dynamic between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's long-held desire for regime change in Iran and former President Donald Trump's approach to the country. Netanyahu has consistently advocated for a more aggressive stance against Iran, aiming to dismantle its current government. However, the article suggests that Trump, while taking a hard line on Iran, appeared willing to accept outcomes short of complete regime change. The focus is on the differing objectives and potential compromises between the two leaders regarding Iran policy. The article implies that Netanyahu's ambitions may be tempered by the former U.S. President's more pragmatic approach.

As hopes for regime change in Iran fade, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces a political test. Netanyahu, who has long positioned himself as Israel's defender against Iran, launched a direct war on the regime. Despite extravagant rhetoric about a "fateful campaign," the Iranian regime remains in place. Netanyahu now claims the war has shifted the balance of power in the Middle East in Israel's favor, even without regime change. Some interpret this as a sign Israel is preparing to end the war, amid concerns about rising oil prices. The war's outcome will likely impact Netanyahu's political standing, as his career is deeply tied to his stance against Iran.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated his desire to "create conditions" for regime change in Iran. He made this announcement during a press conference on March 13, 2026, his first since the start of the war two weeks prior. Netanyahu indicated that Israel's attacks on Iran are intended to contribute to this goal. The Prime Minister did not elaborate on the specific conditions he hoped to establish or the methods Israel would employ to achieve regime change. The press conference provided insight into Israel's strategic objectives regarding Iran amidst ongoing conflict.

In a news conference on March 12, 2026, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Israel is "stronger than ever" amidst its ongoing war with Iran, alongside the United States, which began on February 28. Netanyahu claimed the attacks have severely damaged Iran's nuclear and ballistic projects, killed top nuclear scientists, and inflicted damage on the IRGC and Basij forces. He asserted that the war has prevented Iran from moving its nuclear projects underground. Netanyahu also addressed Iranian protesters, expressing support while emphasizing their role in changing their government. He further stated that the war has enabled Israel to forge new alliances in the region, despite Iranian drone and missile attacks on Gulf countries.

In a recent press conference, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu threatened Iran's new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, following joint air strikes with the US. Netanyahu stated that Iran has suffered significant blows to its Revolutionary Guards Corps and Basij paramilitary force since the start of the war. He vowed continued attacks against Hezbollah in Lebanon after they retaliated for Israel's killing of the previous Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei. When questioned about potential actions against Mojtaba Khamenei and Hezbollah's chief, Netanyahu declined to provide specifics but suggested neither should feel secure. He described the new Supreme Leader as a "puppet of the Revolutionary Guards" who is unable to appear in public.

The Israeli military ordered the evacuation of over 500,000 residents from Beirut's southern suburbs. This order was issued as Israel continued bombing Lebanon and Iran, while Tehran launched retaliatory strikes against Israel and US bases in the region. The IDF spokesperson cited imminent airstrikes targeting Hezbollah, as the reason for the evacuation. The evacuation order encompasses a large area, including hospitals and government ministries within Beirut's southern suburbs. The directive urged residents to evacuate immediately to save their lives. These actions are part of the escalating Middle East crisis.

The Israeli military issued an evacuation order for hundreds of thousands of residents in Beirut's southern suburbs, a Hezbollah stronghold, signaling intensified strikes against the group in Lebanon. This unprecedented order prompted mass panic and traffic jams as residents fled north and south. The evacuation follows a previous order for residents of southern Lebanon near the Israeli border to leave ahead of a potential ground incursion. These actions are part of escalating conflict, with Israeli strikes targeting Hezbollah in Beirut, southern Lebanon, and the Bekaa Valley since Monday. Hezbollah retaliated with rockets and drones following the assassination of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Lebanese authorities report over 100 fatalities from Israeli strikes in the past four days.

Israel has intensified its strikes on Hezbollah in Beirut, Lebanon, resulting in thousands fleeing the capital. These represent the heaviest attacks on Beirut since the 2024 war. Simultaneously, Israel reported striking targets in Tehran, Iran. Israeli air defenses were also engaged in intercepting newly launched missiles originating from Iran. The escalation follows ongoing tensions between Israel and the Iran-backed militia, Hezbollah. The reasons for the strikes and missile launches are rooted in the existing conflict between the two entities and their allies.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced they dismantled an underground military bunker in Tehran, built by former Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. According to the IDF, the compound served as a base for advancing military activities against Israel and the West. The bunker, located beneath Tehran, contained multiple entrances and meeting rooms. Khamenei and other regime leaders were situated directly above the fortified compound when almost 50 of them were killed during Operation Epic Fury. Khamenei, who had ruled Iran for over 30 years, was killed on the first day of the operation. The strike followed an Israeli-American deception plan, which included misleading messaging to suggest no immediate action was planned.

Residents of Dahieh, a southern Beirut suburb, have left their homes due to evacuation orders and ongoing air strikes by Israel. The area is considered a Hezbollah stronghold. People are sleeping in tents and cars as they await further instructions. The exact timing of the evacuations is not specified. The situation has been ongoing for some time, with residents forced to flee their homes amidst the conflict. The reasons behind the evacuation orders remain unclear, but it is believed to be related to the ongoing air strikes by Israel.