Israel says it will keep control over part of southern Lebanon after war with Hezbollah ends

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.

On March 24, 2026, Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich called for the annexation of southern Lebanon. In a public speech, Smotrich advocated for extending Israel's border to the Litani River. He stated that the Litani River should become Israel's new northern border with Lebanon, similar to the buffer zone in Gaza. This would effectively mean the occupation of southern Lebanon by Israel. The stated rationale behind this proposal was not included in the article.

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.

In March 2026, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Israel is "breaking boundaries in every sense of the word" and working to expand its buffer zone from Lebanon. This announcement follows intensified Israeli attacks on Lebanon that began earlier in March. The attacks were initiated after Hezbollah launched rockets towards Israeli territory. These actions occurred in the context of the US-Israel war on Iran. The expansion of the buffer zone aims to create a larger security perimeter for Israel along its northern border with Lebanon.

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.

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.

On March 21, 2026, Iran struck the Israeli cities of Dimona, home to a key nuclear facility, and nearby Arad, wounding at least 180 people. The Iranian government stated the missile strikes were retaliation for an earlier attack on its Natanz nuclear enrichment complex. Israeli officials reported that air defense systems were activated but failed to intercept all missiles. The attack marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between Iran and the US-Israel alliance, which has been ongoing for four weeks. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to continue attacking Iran in response.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claimed Israel acted alone in attacking Iran's South Pars gas field, part of the world's largest natural gas field, amidst escalating tensions over energy infrastructure strikes. The attacks, which included Iranian retaliation against energy targets in Qatar and the Gulf, led to a spike in energy prices. While unnamed Israeli officials claimed the South Pars attack was coordinated with the US, President Trump stated he was unaware and requested no further attacks on energy targets. Netanyahu denied misleading Trump or dragging the US into the conflict. The attacks mark an escalation in the war against Iran, which has restricted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, impacting global energy supplies. Qatar warned of significant repercussions following an attack on its LNG processing plant, while Iran vowed to show "zero restraint" if its infrastructure is struck again.

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.

President Trump stated he is considering "winding down" US military operations against Iran, three weeks into the conflict. He indicated the Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil passage, would need to be policed by other nations, not the United States. Trump listed objectives for the war, including preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons, destroying its military capabilities, and protecting Gulf allies. Despite the ongoing closure of the Strait of Hormuz and the deployment of additional Marines to the Middle East, Trump signaled a potential end to the conflict. His statement marks the strongest indication yet of a possible de-escalation of US military involvement in the region.

In March 2026, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu secured US support for strikes against Iran, a long-sought goal. The attacks have resulted in significant casualties in Iran and Lebanon, with regional spillover effects. The conflict has triggered economic consequences, including rising oil prices, and political divisions within the US and between the US and its allies. Despite these global repercussions, the article suggests the war could benefit Netanyahu by addressing his long-standing concerns about the Iranian threat. Netanyahu has consistently portrayed Iran as an existential threat to Israel, and this conflict allows him to confront it with US backing, something he has sought for years. The ultimate outcome of the war remains uncertain.

President Trump reportedly expressed displeasure to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu regarding an Israeli strike on a gas field. The strike's impact caused significant disruption in energy markets. Trump's complaint suggests a divergence in strategy between the two nations. However, Israeli officials claim that the U.S. government was notified in advance of the operation. The discrepancy between Trump's reaction and Israel's assertion raises questions about the coordination and communication between the two allied countries regarding the strike. The incident highlights potential disagreements on military actions and their impact on global markets.

In his first statement since succeeding his father, Iran's new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, vowed to keep the Strait of Hormuz closed. Khamenei stated that blocking the Strait, a vital waterway for global oil supplies, "must definitely be used." He also demanded the United States close all its bases in the region. The statement, broadcast on state television on Thursday, follows the death of his father at the start of the US-Israel war against Iran. The Strait of Hormuz is a strategic location through which approximately one-fifth of the world's oil supply passes.

Iran issued its first message in the name of Mojtaba Khamenei, the new supreme leader, following the death of his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The message, read on state TV, stated Iran's intent to keep the Strait of Hormuz closed and continue attacks on US bases in the region. Khamenei demanded compensation from the US for attacks, threatening to destroy US assets if refused. The message offered little insight into internal divisions within Iran, but praised national unity. He also expressed support for the Houthis and Hezbollah. Khamenei vowed to avenge the deaths of Iranian martyrs, including those killed in a missile strike on a school, for which a US investigation is underway.

On day 14 of the US-Israel conflict (March 13, 2026), tensions escalated as Israel launched heavy strikes on Tehran, Iran, following retaliatory attacks by Iranian allies across Gulf states. Iran's new Supreme Leader issued a warning demanding the closure of US bases in the region to halt further attacks. The Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for oil transport, is now closed, causing oil prices to surge. Iran claims control of the strait, banning US- and Israel-linked ships. Civilian casualties in Iran are reported to be over 1,300. Iran has also launched attacks on Gulf countries hosting US military assets, targeting oil tankers and facilities.

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.

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.

Reports of injury to Iran's new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, have surfaced following the escalation of conflict in the Middle East. The son of the Iranian president, Yousef Pezeshkian, stated on Wednesday that Khamenei is "safe and sound," contradicting earlier reports. Khamenei assumed the role of Supreme Leader on Sunday after his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was killed in US-Israeli strikes on February 28. The New York Times, citing unnamed Iranian officials, reported that Khamenei sustained injuries, possibly to his legs, and is currently in a secure location. The 56-year-old Khamenei, who has maintained a low public profile, has not yet addressed the nation since becoming Supreme Leader.

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.

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.

Israeli security sources have stated that Israel's attack on Iran lacked a clear plan for regime change, with hopes of a popular uprising considered unrealistic. Despite nearly two weeks of bombing raids and the assassination of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's leadership remains. The success of the conflict may depend on the fate of 440kg of enriched uranium, enough for multiple nuclear warheads, buried under a mountain. Sources say that if the regime survives and retains the uranium, Iran may pursue nuclear weapons. The US is reportedly considering a high-risk mission to secure the uranium, and pre-war negotiations included proposals for Iran to surrender it.