In southern Lebanon, the Israeli military begins “ground operations.”

As fighting against Hezbollah escalates in the vital southern town of Khiam, the Israeli military reports that its troops have begun “limited and targeted ground operations” in southern Lebanon.

Khiam was hit by at least three airstrikes, according to reports on Monday. Hezbollah’s strategically important bastion of Khiam is regarded as a gateway to southern Lebanon. Hezbollah launched rockets in retaliation for the assassination of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, sparking the most recent conflict. Despite several Israeli breaches of the ceasefire mediated by the United States, Hezbollah has not attacked Israel since the 2024 truce.


Yater was the target of two Israeli airstrikes on Monday morning, according to reports. There were no immediate reports of damage or casualties.

Israel also launched raids on Burj Qalawiya, Sultaniya and Chaqra, also in southern Lebanon, according to reports. Two raids were also conducted on the towns of Qantara and as-Sawana.

“In recent days, IDF troops from the 91st division have begun limited and targeted ground operations against key Hezbollah strongholds in southern Lebanon, aimed at enhancing the forward defence area,” the military said in a statement.

“This operation is part of the effort to establish the forward defence, which includes destroying terrorist infrastructure and eliminating terrorists,” it added.

Khiam has a spectacular view over northern Israel and the surrounding Lebanese lowlands because it is situated on high terrain only a few kilometers from the Israeli border and the Litani River.

Moreover, Khodr noted the town lies on a “long and important junction … a road that leads to the eastern and western sectors of southern Lebanon”.

“One of the roads leads to the Bekaa Valley too in eastern Lebanon, another area where Hezbollah has influence,” she said.

“What Israel has been trying to do is really cut the supply lines and the difficult capabilities of Hezbollah, so it’s unable to bring in more weapons and fighters to areas south of the Litani River.”

The Israeli army issued evacuation orders for several neighborhoods in southern Lebanon and the city, Beirut, forcing over 800,000 people—including women and children—to leave their homes.  At least 850 people have died as a result of Israeli attacks on Lebanon thus far, including 66 women and 107 children.