Israel’s military issues new evacuation warnings for residents in parts of southern Lebanon while expanding operations and describing additional areas as a “combat zone” where it says it will act “with great force” against Hezbollah. Across multiple reports, Israel calls on civilians in the affected localities to move north, including areas south of the Zahrani River, after strikes intensify. The announcements come after waves of attacks earlier this week, including more than 120 strikes reported by one source, and despite a ceasefire announced on April 16.
Several outlets also link the latest escalation to ongoing diplomatic efforts. Reuters and France 24 report that senior Israeli and Lebanese military officials hold security discussions, including direct talks in Washington at the Pentagon, and that further US-brokered negotiations are expected early next week. In Lebanon, the Lebanese army reports at least one “targeted” Israeli strike that wounds two soldiers in the south, according to France 24. Israel’s statements, posted on social media, frame the evacuation orders as necessary for civilians amid expanded ground and air activity.
