Israel says battle in Lebanon continues despite Iran war truce

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office stated Israel supports the United States' decision to suspend attacks on Iran for two weeks. This announcement follows Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's claim of a broader ceasefire agreement between the US, Iran, and their allies, encompassing Lebanon. However, Netanyahu clarified that the US informed Israel the two-week truce specifically "does not include Lebanon." Netanyahu expressed support for US President Donald Trump's efforts to address Iran's nuclear, missile, and terror threats, stating the US remains committed to these goals during upcoming negotiations in Pakistan. The situation remains developing, with conflicting reports regarding the scope of the ceasefire.

The United States and Iran reached a provisional two-week ceasefire agreement on Tuesday evening, which includes a temporary reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. The agreement follows a period of heightened tensions and threats from the US. While Israel supports the US-Iran ceasefire, Prime Minister Netanyahu stated it does not extend to fighting against Hezbollah in Lebanon, where Israeli attacks have resulted in over 1,500 deaths. Donald Trump has described Iran's 10-point plan as a "workable basis" for future negotiations. The ceasefire's impact on the broader regional conflict, particularly involving Israel and Lebanon, remains uncertain.

The US and Iran have agreed to a conditional two-week ceasefire, mediated by Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, effective immediately. The agreement allows shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for oil exports. This follows coordinated attacks on Iran by the US and Israel, and threats from President Trump if the Strait remained closed. In exchange for reopening the Strait, Trump agreed to suspend attacks on Iran, claiming military objectives were met. Iran issued a 10-point plan including a complete cessation of war in multiple countries, lifting sanctions, releasing frozen assets, and compensation for reconstruction. While the ceasefire is said to extend to Lebanon, there is no confirmation of Israel halting operations there.

Following a US-Iran ceasefire brokered by Pakistan on April 8, 2026, Israel continued its military operations in southern Lebanon, despite claims the truce should extend to the region. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated the US-Iran agreement did not apply to Israel's conflict with Hezbollah. While sources close to Hezbollah told Reuters the group had paused attacks in line with the truce, Israel renewed strikes and urged evacuations in parts of Beirut. The US-Iran ceasefire, intended to halt a six-week war, was announced shortly before a US deadline and was mediated by Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The Lebanese government reported it had not received official communication regarding a ceasefire that included Lebanon.

Despite a ceasefire announcement brokered by Donald Trump between the US and Iran, Israel has stated it will continue its military operations in Lebanon. The Israeli Prime Minister's office clarified that the ceasefire, intended to pause strikes against Iran for two weeks, does not extend to Lebanon. This contradicts claims from Pakistan, which mediated the agreement, that the ceasefire included Lebanon. The Israeli military is continuing operations against Hezbollah and has ordered civilians in southern Lebanon to evacuate. While Trump's ceasefire announcement focused on Iran, it did not mention Lebanon, leaving the status of Israeli attacks there uncertain. Israel maintains that the conflict in Lebanon is separate and will continue despite any agreements with Iran.

Following a US-Iran ceasefire agreement, Israel launched air strikes in southern Lebanon, targeting areas including Tyre and Nabatieh. The Israeli Prime Minister's office denied that the ceasefire extended to Lebanon, where it continues to fight Hezbollah. These strikes occurred despite the Lebanese presidency's efforts to include Lebanon in regional peace talks. The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah escalated after Hezbollah fired rockets into Israel in retaliation for the killing of the Iranian supreme leader and near-daily Israeli attacks on Lebanon. Over 1,500 people have been killed in Lebanon, and more than 1.2 million have been displaced as Israel aims to create a security buffer zone and destroy Hezbollah's infrastructure. Hezbollah has warned displaced families to await a formal ceasefire announcement before returning home.

Amidst escalating US and Israeli attacks on Tehran and a looming deadline set by President Trump to open the Strait of Hormuz, Iran has proposed a 10-point peace plan to end the war. The plan, conveyed through Pakistan, calls for a permanent end to hostilities, safe passage through the Strait, lifting of sanctions, and reconstruction. While details of the 10 clauses remain unpublished, the conflict has spread to the Gulf region and Lebanon. Trump acknowledged the proposal as a "significant step" but deemed it "not good enough." The US president had threatened to target Iranian infrastructure until Tehran agreed to end the war and open the Strait, a crucial passage for global oil and gas supplies.

In April 2026, US President Donald Trump issued a warning to Iran regarding the Strait of Hormuz. He demanded the strait be fully reopened by Tuesday, threatening the "complete demolition" of Iranian power plants and bridges if the deadline is not met. This ultimatum follows a US ceasefire proposal conveyed to Iran through intermediaries. Trump characterized Iran's response as "significant" but ultimately "not good enough." Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated that US forces are currently conducting more strikes on Iran than any day since the start of the war. The situation remains tense as the deadline approaches.

President Trump has issued an ultimatum to Iran, demanding a deal that includes free oil traffic through the Strait of Hormuz by Tuesday evening, Washington DC time, or face devastating strikes. Iran has rejected a temporary ceasefire and presented its own demands, described by a US official as "maximalist." With the deadline approaching, there is little indication Iran will agree. Failure to follow through on the threat could damage Trump's credibility, despite recent displays of American military prowess, including a rescue mission of downed airmen in Iran. The situation highlights Iran's potential to disrupt oil tanker traffic in the Strait of Hormuz, a capability the US may be underestimating.

Amid ongoing conflict, the US and Iran remain far from a peace deal due to a lack of trust and a reliable guarantor. President Trump issued another ultimatum to Iran, threatening severe consequences if a deal isn't reached by Tuesday. Pakistan is attempting to mediate a truce between the two nations, with discussions reaching a critical stage. While the US, Iran, and Pakistan have each proposed solutions to end the conflict, analysts warn that the absence of a strong guarantor could render any agreement ineffective. The article highlights the challenges in achieving a lasting peace between the US and Iran.

In a press conference on April 7, 2026, regarding the US involvement in the Iran war, President Donald Trump and Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth invoked religious themes. Trump stated his belief that God supports the United States' actions in the conflict. Hegseth drew a parallel between the rescue of a downed US airman and the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The press conference focused on the US's role in the Iran war and included religious justifications for their involvement. The comments were made during a news conference.

Yemen's Houthi rebels announced they joined Iran and Hezbollah in Lebanon in coordinated attacks against Israel on Monday, launching cruise missiles and drones targeting vital and military sites. The Houthis stated their involvement, which began in March, is in support of Iran and as a show of solidarity with Palestinians amidst the Israeli war on Gaza. Simultaneously, Israeli officials reported recovering bodies from a prior Iranian strike in Haifa. Israel continues to target Hezbollah in Lebanon, including strikes in Beirut and the south, claiming to target terror infrastructure and financial resources. Deadly strikes were also reported in southern Lebanon, resulting in casualties.

In April 2026, amidst ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran following the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Israel struck an Iranian petrochemical plant located in a massive gas field. This attack occurred as mediators were reportedly proposing a ceasefire. The conflict has involved missile strikes from both sides, with Iranian missiles causing damage in Israeli cities like Tel Aviv and Haifa. Israel has also conducted airstrikes in Iran, including one targeting a technology building at Tehran’s Sharif University. Associated Press reporters gained access to Iran to document the situation, revealing damage in various locations. The broader conflict has jolted the world economy.

In April 2026, Israel launched renewed military strikes on southern Lebanon, including areas around Beirut previously considered safe, escalating the ongoing conflict. Israeli forces targeted towns south of the Litani River, including Arzoun and Nabatieh al-Fawqa, resulting in casualties and infrastructure damage. A ground invasion, initiated in mid-March, continues to deepen, raising concerns about planned demolitions of homes. Observers note that bridges are being targeted, isolating southern Lebanon and hindering humanitarian aid access for an estimated 150,000 people. Humanitarian organizations warn of a rapidly deteriorating situation and long-term developmental setbacks due to the destruction of vital transport infrastructure.

President Trump has threatened military action against Iran if it fails to meet his deadline of Tuesday at 8:00 PM EDT to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Speaking at the White House, Trump stated that the U.S. could "take out" Iran "in one night," targeting its energy and transportation infrastructure, and send the country "back to the Stone Ages" if the deadline is missed. While Iran has rejected previous ceasefire proposals and called for sanctions relief, Trump expressed optimism that negotiations were progressing in good faith. However, a regional official indicated that communication blackouts and delayed responses from Iranian officials are complicating negotiations. The threat comes after the U.S. successfully rescued crew members from a downed fighter jet in southern Iran.

President Trump touted a successful US rescue operation of an American pilot and weapons officer from a downed F-15 in Iran. He simultaneously warned that the US could strike Iran's infrastructure if negotiations fail by his Tuesday deadline. Trump stated the entire country of Iran could be "taken out in a night" if his demands are not met. This comes as Pakistan proposed a ceasefire to allow for talks, which Iran rejected, threatening further retaliation. The US is also investigating a leak regarding a reported US serviceman casualty during the operation.

Israeli media, citing military briefings, reports that Iran possesses over 1,000 missiles capable of reaching Israel, while Hezbollah in Lebanon holds an estimated 8,000 to 10,000 shorter-range rockets. An Israeli air force officer revealed the missile estimate, indicating a potentially prolonged conflict despite claims of achieving core objectives. Before the current conflict, Iran was believed to have around 2,000 intermediate-range missiles, with over 500 launched or destroyed since. At least 19 people have died in Israel during the conflict, including two in Haifa after a recent missile strike. The ongoing conflict raises concerns about continued attacks, as neither Iran nor Hezbollah show signs of de-escalation.

Due to escalating Israeli military actions, including air attacks and a ground invasion, over one million people have been displaced across Lebanon as of April 2026. Many families fleeing the violence in southern Lebanon are seeking refuge in schools and public buildings in the mountains, such as in Qabr Chamoun. These locations have been converted into shelters providing temporary housing for those displaced. The Israeli military campaign intensified after Hezbollah launched an attack in response to the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a US-Israeli air attack in February. This recent escalation follows repeated violations by Israel of a ceasefire agreement established in late November 2024 after more than a year of cross-border attacks.

Israeli strikes across Lebanon, including Beirut and the south, have killed at least 14 people and wounded dozens more. The strikes follow threats to target the Masnaa border crossing with Syria, a vital trade route. The attacks are part of an escalation in conflict, with Hezbollah firing projectiles at northern Israel and Israeli troops pushing further into southern Lebanon. Israel claims to be targeting Hezbollah infrastructure, while Hezbollah claims to have fired a cruise missile at an Israeli warship. The recent violence began after Hezbollah fired rockets into Israel in response to the United States-Israeli war on Iran.

Donald Trump threatened Iran with attacks on its power plants and bridges if it does not reopen the Strait of Hormuz by his deadline of Monday. The threat was made in an expletive-laden social media post on Sunday, where he stated that Tuesday would be "Power Plant Day, and Bridge Day" in Iran. Trump had previously set a 10-day deadline on March 26 for Iran to reopen the Strait, a key shipping route that has been halted since the US and Israel attacked Iran on February 28. While Trump claims Iran is seeking a deal to end the war, Iran has stated that it is not seeking to end the war and has vowed to escalate if its infrastructure is targeted. US-Israeli strikes have already targeted civilian infrastructure in Iran.

Israeli strikes in Lebanon on Sunday killed 11 people, including a child, and injured dozens more in Kfarhata and Beirut. The Lebanese Health Ministry reported the casualties, marking one of the most violent days since fighting escalated last month. The Israeli military issued evacuation orders for Kfarhata prior to the strike and also warned about the Masnaa border crossing with Syria, alleging Hezbollah was using it for military purposes. The Lebanese army reported a soldier was killed in a separate Israeli strike in southern Lebanon earlier in the day. The strikes and sounds of military aircraft were reported throughout Beirut on Easter Sunday.

Three Indonesian peacekeepers killed in southern Lebanon last week were buried in their hometowns on Sunday. Farizal Rhomadhon died on March 29 from a projectile explosion, while Zulmi Aditya Iskandar and Muhammad Nur Ichwan died on March 30 when an explosion struck a UNIFIL logistics convoy. The incidents occurred in an area where fighting between Israel and Hezbollah has been ongoing since the start of the Middle East war. The Indonesian government has called for an investigation into the deaths and guarantees for the safety of peacekeeping forces. The soldiers were honored with military funerals, and family members mourned their loss at the burial sites.

The U.S. State Department is urging Americans to leave Lebanon due to targeted threats from Iran and its proxy militias against American universities in the Middle East. The U.S. Embassy in Beirut describes the security situation as volatile, citing airstrikes, drones, and rocket attacks throughout the country, particularly in the south, Beqaa, and parts of Beirut. Americans in southern Lebanon, near the Syrian border, in refugee settlements, and in Beirut's southern suburbs are strongly encouraged to depart immediately. Commercial flights are available from Beirut Rafic Hariri airport, and the U.S. Embassy is offering limited emergency passport services. Routine consular services, including visa operations, are suspended, and travel to Lebanon is not advised.

In the month since fighting began between Israel and Hezbollah, the Israeli military reports striking over 3,500 targets in Lebanon. The conflict began after Hezbollah launched rockets at Israel in response to a US-Israeli attack that killed Iran's supreme leader. Israel has responded with strikes and a ground offensive, claiming to have killed approximately 1,000 militants. According to Lebanon's health ministry, the conflict has resulted in 1,345 deaths, including civilians and healthcare workers, and over 4,000 injuries. Over one million people have been displaced within Lebanon due to the fighting.

Since March 2026, intensified Israeli attacks on southern Lebanon have severely impacted the healthcare system. According to Lebanon's Ministry of Public Health, Israeli strikes have killed 53 medical workers, destroyed 87 ambulances or medical centers, and forced five hospitals to close. Experts and analysts suggest this destruction is intended to displace the population from the south. These attacks and evacuation orders are cutting people off from essential medical care. The World Health Organization has also reported direct attacks on health facilities. The conflict escalated after Hezbollah claimed an attack in retaliation for the assassination of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, leading Israel to expand its strikes and issue mass evacuation orders, displacing 1.2 million people.

Israeli attacks on Beirut's southern suburbs and nearby towns have killed at least seven people, according to Lebanon's Ministry of Public Health. The attacks, which occurred on Tuesday and Wednesday, targeted areas including Jnah and Khaldeh. Israel stated its military aimed to kill a senior Hezbollah commander in the strikes. Hezbollah is currently engaged in fighting an Israeli ground invasion in southern Lebanon. The state-run National News Agency reported a strike in the Hadath district. Lebanon was drawn into the conflict on March 2 when Hezbollah launched attacks on Israel in support of Iran, leading to broad Israeli attacks across Lebanon.

On Wednesday, April 1, 2026, Iran launched attacks in the Gulf region, hitting a tanker off the coast of Qatar and Kuwait International Airport. Simultaneously, Israel conducted an attack in Beirut, Lebanon, resulting in five fatalities. The attacks occurred amidst escalating tensions, with Iran acknowledging ongoing conflict with its Gulf Arab neighbors. The strikes in Beirut caused significant damage, requiring rescue operations and firefighting efforts. Sirens sounded in Bnei Brak, Israel, as rescue teams and residents sought shelter from Iranian missile strikes. The reasons behind the attacks remain unclear.

Israel has intensified its attacks on Lebanon this week, striking areas beyond Hezbollah's control, including a residential neighborhood north of Beirut and the Jnah neighborhood in the capital. The Israeli military claims it targeted Hezbollah infrastructure and killed senior commanders in Beirut. Strikes also continued in Hezbollah strongholds in southern Beirut and southern Lebanon. A health facility in the south was hit, killing a paramedic, and a building near Beirut's airport was destroyed after evacuation. These attacks follow Hezbollah's involvement in the regional conflict since March 2, after attacks on its ally Iran. The Lebanese army has withdrawn from some southern positions after an Israeli strike killed a soldier.

A memorial service was held on April 1, 2026, to honor Farizal Rhomadhon, an Indonesian UN peacekeeper. Rhomadhon was one of three Indonesian soldiers who died in Lebanon within a 24-hour period. The memorial was attended by family members and colleagues. The event served to remember and pay respects to Rhomadhon's service as a UN peacekeeper in Lebanon. The article does not specify the cause of death.

The deaths of three Indonesian peacekeepers in southern Lebanon have prompted calls for Indonesia to reassess its Middle East policy. Analysts and lawmakers are questioning the risks of overseas deployments in the region and the limits of diplomatic protection amid escalating conflict. The incidents, which also injured five other peacekeepers, have led to pressure on Indonesia to intensify diplomatic efforts and seek accountability from Israel. There are also calls to evaluate Indonesia's membership in the Board of Peace, which includes Israel, and its plan to send troops to Gaza as part of a US-led stabilization force. Indonesia's Foreign Ministry condemned the attacks on the UNIFIL, citing a deteriorating security environment due to Israeli military operations.

The Israeli military announced that four soldiers were killed in combat in southern Lebanon, where they are engaged in a ground invasion against Hezbollah fighters. The deaths occurred as Israel pushes further into southern Lebanon, following orders from Prime Minister Netanyahu to expand the invasion to create a buffer zone up to the Litani River. These deaths bring the total number of Israeli soldiers killed since March 2nd to ten. The conflict has resulted in over 1,200 deaths in Lebanon and displaced over a million people. The escalation includes Israel opening a new front in the Bekaa Valley, targeting Hezbollah supply lines.

In March 2026, the United States and Israel launched attacks against Iran. Despite these massive attacks, Iran remains a stubborn foe. The attacks and subsequent events included damage to an oil facility in Fujairah, United Arab Emirates, heightened security in Tehran, and a Pentagon press briefing in Washington. Iran retaliated with an attack on Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar and a drone strike on fuel storage in Kuwait City, Kuwait. The article, originating from Beirut, highlights the continued tensions and conflict in the region.

A Kuwaiti oil tanker anchored at Dubai port was struck by an Iranian drone, causing a fire and damage to the vessel's hull. The incident occurred amidst heightened tensions in the Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz, hours after former President Trump threatened to target Iran's energy infrastructure if it didn't open the Strait of Hormuz. No injuries were reported, and the fire was quickly extinguished. The attack is the latest in a series of strikes on merchant vessels in the region. The US has accused Iran of using diplomacy as a cover for further attacks, while continuing to give mixed messages about ending the war that the US started together with Israel. The Philippines, heavily reliant on Middle Eastern oil imports, is particularly vulnerable to economic shocks resulting from the conflict.

Since the start of the US-Israel war on Iran on February 28th, the stock markets in Dubai and Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates have experienced significant losses, totaling around $120 billion. The Dubai Financial Market (DFM) General Index has lost about $45bn in market capitalisation, while the larger ADX General Index has shed about $75bn. This decline is attributed to the conflict's impact on the UAE's status as a regional travel hub, with numerous flight cancellations affecting tourism, a key contributor to the UAE's GDP. While other Gulf exchanges saw mixed results, the UAE's losses are among the most substantial, though some analysts view this as a temporary shock rather than long-term economic damage.

Experts warn that President Trump's threat to seize Iran's Kharg Island, the hub of 90% of its oil exports, carries significant risks. Military analysts suggest a naval blockade might be a better option to pressure Iran. Seizing the island could escalate the ongoing conflict, prompting retaliation from Iran and its proxies, potentially disrupting global energy supplies. Experts highlight the difficulty of securing and holding the island, which is close to the Iranian mainland and vulnerable to attack. While Trump faces pressure to end the month-long conflict, analysts caution that seizing Kharg Island may not force Iran to capitulate and could endanger American troops.

In March 2026, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered an expansion of the Israeli military's invasion into southern Lebanon. The objective is to create a "buffer zone," with Israeli forces advancing towards the Litani River. The expansion follows earlier incursions into the region. Amidst the ongoing military operations, an explosion at a United Nations position in southern Lebanon resulted in the death of a peacekeeper. The incident occurred as Israeli forces pushed further into Lebanese territory.

An Indonesian peacekeeper with the UN peacekeeping mission in Lebanon (UNIFIL) was killed on Sunday when a projectile exploded near Adchit al-Qusayr in southern Lebanon. Another peacekeeper was critically injured, and three other Indonesian peacekeepers sustained injuries from indirect artillery fire. UNIFIL has launched an investigation to determine the origin of the projectile, which struck one of its positions. The area is the site of ongoing clashes between Israeli troops and Hezbollah fighters. UNIFIL, which monitors hostilities along the demarcation line with Israel, has been caught in the crossfire between the two groups in recent years.

Two Indonesian UN peacekeepers were killed in southern Lebanon on Monday when an explosion of unknown origin destroyed their vehicle, according to the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL). A third peacekeeper was severely injured, and a fourth was also hurt. This incident follows the death of another Indonesian peacekeeper on Sunday night from a projectile explosion in the same region. UNIFIL has launched investigations into both incidents, which occurred amidst heightened tensions and increased military actions between Israel and Hezbollah. UNIFIL, established in 1978 to serve as a buffer between Israel and Lebanon, patrols the "Blue Line" border. The organization condemned the attacks and emphasized the obligation of all actors to ensure the safety and security of UN personnel.

According to U.S., Gulf, and Israeli officials, Gulf allies, including Saudi Arabia and the UAE, are privately lobbying President Trump to persist in the war against Iran. These allies believe that the month-long U.S.-led bombing campaign has not sufficiently weakened Tehran. The Gulf states initially expressed discontent over the lack of advance notice regarding the U.S.-Israeli attack. They also felt the U.S. had previously disregarded their warnings concerning the war. The Gulf allies are advocating for continued military action to achieve a more decisive defeat of Iran. The events described in the article are dated in March of 2026.

In a March 30, 2026, interview with Al Jazeera, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio detailed the United States' demands for Iran. Rubio stated that the U.S. insists Iran must not develop nuclear weapons. He also asserted that Iran needs to cease its support for terrorism. Rubio further explained that Iran's short-range missiles are designed to pose a threat to countries in the region, specifically mentioning Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar. The interview outlined the U.S. position on Iran's nuclear ambitions, regional influence, and military capabilities.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Sunday that Israel will expand its invasion of southern Lebanon, aiming to broaden the existing security strip and fundamentally change the situation in the north. This escalation comes as Israeli forces continue targeting Hezbollah, which Netanyahu claims retains the capability to fire rockets into Israel. The announcement was made during a visit to northern Israel. Meanwhile, an Iranian official warned the U.S. against a ground invasion, and regional diplomats met in Pakistan seeking direct U.S.-Iran talks to end the ongoing conflict. Officials in Lebanon report over 1,100 deaths since the start of the conflict.

Amidst heightened regional tensions stemming from the US-Israeli war on Iran, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered an expansion of military invasions into southern Lebanon, aiming to create a security buffer zone. Israeli forces are advancing towards the Litani River to drive out Hezbollah, which entered the conflict following the death of Iran's former Supreme Leader. Fighting between Hezbollah and Israel has intensified, with Israeli troops reaching a tributary close to the Litani River. Since Lebanon was drawn into the war on March 2, at least 1,238 people have been killed, including 124 children, and over 3,500 wounded, according to Lebanon's Health Ministry. Recent casualties include rescue workers and journalists.

In Beirut, Lebanon, a Lebanese family has started a mobile aid initiative in response to the ongoing conflict. Launched on March 29, 2026, the initiative aims to provide support to individuals and families who have been displaced from their homes due to the crisis. The mobile nature of the aid allows the family to reach those in need directly, offering assistance to vulnerable populations affected by the conflict. The initiative seeks to address the immediate needs of displaced people in the Beirut area.

Due to the ongoing US-Israel war with Iran, over a million people have been displaced in Lebanon, particularly after Israel issued evacuation orders for southern regions. This displacement follows intensified Israeli campaigns against Hezbollah in Lebanon, triggered by rocket fire into northern Israel. Displaced families, many from Hezbollah-supported areas, are struggling with overwhelmed shelters and are forced to sleep in cars or makeshift tents. The BBC spoke with displaced families, including children and pregnant women, highlighting their difficult living conditions amid the conflict. The situation is particularly dire as families face extreme weather conditions and a lack of adequate shelter.

In March 2026, Lebanon is experiencing a second large-scale Israeli attack within two years, exacerbating the suffering of its population amidst a US-Israeli war on Iran. Approximately a quarter of Lebanon's population has been displaced due to Israeli evacuation orders in the south and Beirut's southern suburbs. The renewed conflict began after Hezbollah retaliated for the assassination of Iran's Supreme Leader, ending a fragile ceasefire that had been in place since November 2024. Israel has intensified attacks on southern Lebanon and declared its intention to occupy the region, leading to increased frustration and fatigue among Lebanese civilians due to ongoing violence, economic strain, and uncertainty about the conflict's duration. Foreigners are said to be the most vulnerable.

In March 2026, growing opposition within Israel is challenging the government's military strategy in southern Lebanon. According to Al Jazeera, the rising dissent stems from concerns about the potential for an open-ended conflict. Critics question the effectiveness of the current approach, given Hezbollah's continued strength and presence in the region. The opposition raises doubts about the long-term implications of the ongoing military actions in Lebanon. The debate centers on the sustainability and goals of Israel's involvement in the conflict.

The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) warned that Lebanon faces a potential "humanitarian catastrophe" due to Israel's intensified bombardment and ground invasion, which began in early March. According to the UN, over 1.2 million people have been displaced across the country, including areas from southern Lebanon to Beirut. UNHCR's representative stated that Lebanon's shelter system is struggling to accommodate the increasing number of displaced families, who are living in constant fear due to the strikes. The attacks intensified after Hezbollah fired rockets into Israel following the assassination of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The UNHCR expressed concern about the psychological impact on children.

Israel is increasing its military presence in southern Lebanon, deploying Division 162 to expand a "buffer zone" despite international concerns. This action follows intensified Israeli attacks in early March, initiated after Hezbollah fired rockets into Israel following the assassination of the Iranian Supreme Leader. The Israeli military has conducted aerial and ground attacks, displacing over 1.2 million people in southern Lebanon and Beirut suburbs, leading to a humanitarian crisis. As of late March 2026, Israeli attacks have killed over 1,100 and wounded over 3,200, according to Lebanon's Ministry of Health. Despite international calls for de-escalation, Israel plans to create a larger buffer zone and prevent Lebanese citizens from returning to their southern homes.

Due to expanded evacuation orders from the Israeli military in late March 2026, over one million people in Lebanon have been displaced within two weeks. Israel has ordered all residents south of the Zahrani River to evacuate north, threatening military action against those who remain, in an effort to target alleged Hezbollah positions and establish a buffer zone. This evacuation zone covers a significant portion of southern Lebanon, impacting over 100 towns and villages. The displacement crisis has overwhelmed shelter capacities, forcing many to live in dire conditions. Over 250,000 people have fled Lebanon, with more than 125,000 crossing into Syria, including thousands of Lebanese citizens. The destruction of bridges by Israel has further complicated evacuation efforts.

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.