The Israel Defense Forces announced on Saturday that it conducted strikes on more than 70 Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon. These included rocket launchers and buildings allegedly used by the group to facilitate attacks. The operation followed evacuation warnings issued for over 20 locations in the area.
Hezbollah Operatives Killed
The military confirmed that several Hezbollah operatives were killed in areas of southern Lebanon where Israeli troops were operating. Lebanon's National News Agency reported airstrikes in villages such as Rihan and Sujud, near the city of Nabatieh, a known Hezbollah stronghold.
Lebanese Soldier Wounded
The Lebanese army reported that one of its soldiers was seriously wounded in an Israeli drone strike near a hospital in Nabatieh. The soldier had initially been targeted without injury. The IDF did not immediately comment on the incident.
Lebanese media footage showed armored vehicles of the Lebanese Armed Forces withdrawing from Kfar Tebnit, a town close to Nabatieh, as Israeli forces advanced in the area.
Tunnel Operations
In a separate statement, the IDF said that seven Hezbollah operatives were killed this week while operating from a tunnel in southern Lebanon. Reservists of the 551st Paratroopers Brigade identified two cells of gunmen emerging from the tunnel, which was used for storing weapons and launching attacks. The operatives were killed in airstrikes, artillery shelling, and by explosive drones. Weapons and equipment were later found near the tunnel.
Israeli forces are also scanning a major Hezbollah tunnel system near Beaufort Castle. In one tunnel route, maps were found illustrating control over northern Israeli communities. The IDF says the tunnel was built with Iranian assistance and will be demolished after scanning.
Drone Incident
The army reported that a suspected Hezbollah drone struck near Israeli forces in southern Lebanon on Saturday, causing no injuries.
