Newsletters
Israeli forces have pushed north of Lebanon's Litani River and moved closer to the southern city of Nabatieh, while the Lebanese army has pulled back from positions in the area over security concerns, Lebanese military sources said.
Troops advanced through the town of Yahmur and entered the areas of Eastern Zawtar and Shaqif Arnoun, extending Israel's presence beyond the Litani River. As the advance continued, Lebanese forces withdrew from nearby positions to protect personnel.
A senior Lebanese military source told Anadolu Agency that army units are no longer present in areas where Israeli forces have moved in, although the source declined to specify how many positions had been vacated.
The source added that the Lebanese army's immediate priority is maintaining stability inside the country as political debate continues over negotiations with Israel.
The latest escalation comes despite a ceasefire repeatedly extended through U.S.-mediated talks. Israel launched a large-scale air campaign against Lebanon on March 2 before expanding ground operations in the south. Lebanese authorities later said the conflict had displaced more than 1 million people.
Meanwhile, Israeli public broadcaster KAN reported Friday that Israel rejected a Lebanese demand for the withdrawal of Israeli troops from southern Lebanon during U.S.-mediated talks involving military representatives from both sides.
According to the report, Israeli officials told mediators that forces would remain in place. The discussions also touched on the possibility of a broader ceasefire arrangement that could include talks on Hezbollah's weapons.
KAN reported that Lebanese and Israeli military officials are not holding direct talks, with messages relayed through U.S. mediators.
During the discussions, Lebanon sought clarification on Israeli references to "imminent danger" and "response to threats" as grounds for military operations. Israel, meanwhile, pushed for direct communication between the two armies and cooperation on the disarmament of Hezbollah.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Thursday and Friday that Israeli forces had crossed the Litani River and established "positions of control."
The remarks sparked criticism from Israeli security officials, who argued that publicly revealing operational details served no military purpose and could put troops at risk, according to KAN.
Some officials also viewed the comments as politically motivated ahead of upcoming elections, the broadcaster reported.
The Israeli military has not officially announced any operation beyond the Litani River.
Set as preferred source
Set as preferred source
1 min read
1 min read
