In a strategic move following recent evaluations in Lebanon, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz, alongside the prime minister, has tasked the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) with the urgent demolition of all bridges spanning the Litani River. This directive aims to block Hezbollah’s transport of militants and weaponry to the southern regions.
Earlier, on March 18, the IDF took down two bridges over the Litani River, following the demolition of another on March 13. These actions marked the first strikes on Lebanese state-owned infrastructure amid ongoing conflicts.
Furthermore, Katz has instructed the IDF to accelerate the dismantlement of residential areas in southern Lebanese villages. This initiative seeks to dismantle terrorist networks, drawing on tactics previously employed by the Israeli army in Rafah and Beit Hanoun within the Gaza Strip.
“The IDF is advancing its ground operations in Lebanon to dismantle Hezbollah forces and secure the anti-tank defense line,” Katz explained, emphasizing the goal of safeguarding nearby settlements.
In a related incident on Sunday, Hezbollah launched an anti-tank missile that struck a vehicle in Misgav Am, a kibbutz situated in the Upper Galilee, resulting in the death of one Israeli.
Misgav Am is positioned right along the border with southern Lebanon, highlighting the area’s vulnerability to cross-border tensions.
Anti-tank guided missiles have an effective range of 2.5 to 5.5 kilometers (1.5 to 3.1 miles).
“We are determined not to allow the pre-Oct. 7 reality to return,” said Katz. “We promised to protect the residents of the north, and that’s exactly what we’re doing.”
“The IDF will continue to allow the evacuation of residents of southern Lebanon north to the Litani River from the war zone for their protection,” he added. The IDF ordered all Lebanese residents south of the Litani to move north on March 4. An estimated 1 million Lebanese have been displaced to date due to the fighting.
