Israel signals plan to occupy southern Lebanon up to Litani River

Israel has openly declared plans to occupy swathes of southern Lebanon up to the Litani River, in its clearest statement yet of territorial ambitions beyond the border. Defence Minister Israel Katz said Israeli forces would seize control of areas stretching roughly 30 km north, establishing a permanent military presence and preventing residents from returning to parts of the south. Katz said troops were already operating to secure what he described as a “forward defensive line,” targeting positions linked to Hezbollah, but also overseeing the demolition of homes and infrastructure in affected areas.