The IDF is expanding its ground operations in southern Lebanon, deploying additional divisions as Hezbollah continues near-hourly rocket fire toward northern Israel.
The 91st and 36th divisions are currently operating along the border area, with the 162nd and 98th divisions expected to join in the coming days. Each will operate in separate sectors as part of efforts to widen the security perimeter and push Hezbollah terrorists north of the Litani River.
IDF strikes in Lebanon
(Video: IDF)
Forces are working to isolate the area near the border, including destroying bridges and restricting movement to prevent Hezbollah terrorists from crossing to southern Lebanon.
Meanwhile, the military said Wednesday that three reservists were wounded, one seriously, when a rocket struck near troops operating in southern Lebanon, with the soldiers hit by shrapnel.
Hezbollah has kept up barrages of rockets into northern Israel, firing about 100 projectiles a day on average, with signs the pace is increasing.
IDF ground forces operating in the area have reported relatively limited direct encounters, as Hezbollah terrorists largely remain in rear positions while continuing to fire toward northern communities.
Troops are advancing methodically, carrying out intensive strikes and clearing operations in specific areas over several days at a time.
According to the IDF, about 700 Hezbollah terrorists have been killed so far in the fighting. In recent days, troops also captured several members of Hezbollah’s elite Radwan Force, who were transferred to Israel for interrogation.
Security officials assess that military action alone will not be sufficient to disarm Hezbollah and are aiming for a broader strategy combining sustained strikes, pressure inside Lebanon and efforts to push the Iran-backed terrorist group north of the Litani.
The campaign has also included strikes within Hezbollah strongholds deeper inside Lebanon, including in Tyre, the Bekaa Valley, Beirut and the capital's southern Dahieh suburb.
Officials said Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem is facing growing pressure, including concerns that U.S.-Iran negotiations may not address the fighting with Israel, potentially leaving the group isolated.
They added that internal pressure within Lebanon is also increasing, though authorities there have so far avoided direct confrontation with Hezbollah over fears of sparking a civil war.
Despite the ongoing fighting, Hezbollah continues to launch rockets toward Israel every few hours. The threat from drones has been reduced compared to previous rounds of fighting, with dozens intercepted since the war began.
Israeli defense officials have described the current moment as a significant opportunity to further weaken Hezbollah, while emphasizing that a broader approach beyond military force will be required.