Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that Israeli ground forces have crossed Lebanon’s Litani River. This move occurs as military officials from Israel and Lebanon prepare to meet for talks brokered by the United States.
In a speech given near the Lebanese border, Mr. Netanyahu stated that Israeli forces have made significant advances into Lebanon. This development further destabilizes a cease-fire that has failed to halt the violence between Israel and Hezbollah.
“The military has crossed the Litani,” Mr. Netanyahu said, referencing the river that has long served as a cease-fire line in southern Lebanon.
Amid ongoing airstrikes, Israel has urged evacuations in southern Lebanon. The Lebanese health ministry reports over 3,300 fatalities since new hostilities began in early March.
The escalation comes as both nations’ military officials meet at the Pentagon in hopes of stabilizing the border and ending the fighting. Political talks are also scheduled for next week.
The Litani River, running 15 to 20 miles north of Israel, holds symbolic significance. Crossings by Israeli forces suggest increased operations beyond Israel’s self-declared “forward defense line” within southern Lebanon.
Recent operations have included a notable strike near Beirut, marking the first action in that region in nearly a month. Pressured by hard-liners, Mr. Netanyahu has pushed the military to escalate operations against Hezbollah, who continues to launch drone attacks on Israeli troops.
Friday’s Pentagon talks are expected to emphasize Hezbollah’s disarmament, a primary Israeli demand. Meanwhile, Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun spoke with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, detailing that a cease-fire remains critical for progress.
Israel’s ongoing military campaign in Lebanon coincides with sensitive negotiations between the U.S. and Iran aimed at regional peace. Iran insists any agreement must end Israeli strikes on Hezbollah, making Lebanon a focal point in broader negotiations.
Israeli military chief Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir affirmed Mr. Netanyahu’s stance, noting Israeli forces are advancing into new areas and will continue targeting Hezbollah.
Reporter Euan Ward, based in Beirut, covers developments in Lebanon and Syria for the Times.
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